Hit and run driver robs pensioner

A 74-year-old woman was left shocked and slightly injured after falling victim to a thief in Cunliffe Road on Sunday afternoon.

The woman, who has not been named, was walking along Cunliffe Road when the thief struck, at about 3.30pm.

The suspect police want to question was driving a cream or grey coloured Fiat Uno or Cinquecento.

As the woman walked along, the car roared up behind her and mounted the pavement. The pensioner was struck by the car and what followed has left the police disgusted.

Inspector Mick Hopwood, of Keighley Police, said: "Not only was this woman struck by the car, the suspect then leaned out of the vehicle and snatched her handbag."

Insp Hopwood said the man then drove off, going the wrong way along a one way street.

"This is an absolutely atrocious offence, committed by someone who clearly had no regard for this elderly lady," said Insp Hopwood.

"As far as I am aware, this is a pensioner who was just visiting Ilkley. This could well have been a visit which could have ended with potentially disastrous consequences," he said.

"It is just fortunate the lady's injuries were not more serious, and injuries from being struck by a car can often be very serious indeed, " said Insp Hopwood.

Insp Hopwood said the search was now on for the offender. "We are appealing for witnesses who may be able to shed some light on this disgraceful incident.

"We want to hear from anyone who may have been in Cunliffe Road at about 3.30pm on Sunday afternoon, or maybe they noticed the cream or grey car as it left the scene," he said.

"We also want to hear from anybody who thinks they may know the identity of the suspect. We can deal with the matter in confidence," said Insp Hopwood.

Anyone who thinks they can help police solve this crime should contact Keighley Police on 01535 604261 or Ilkley Police on 601060.

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