[05 JAN 01] CRIMES, FIRES & ACCIDENTS
Knifeman Strikes In Coventry Arcade

A knifeman pulled a woman to the ground before making off with her handbag in Coventry city centre yesterday.

The victim suffered grazes to her knees and wrists following the robbery in the City Arcade at 10.30am.

She approached by a black man, aged about 20. He demanded money and pointed a knife at her.

The attacker then grabbed at the bag, pulling her to the ground before making his escape.

The bag was later found, but a Nokia mobile phone worth £150, £15 cash and a watch worth £150 had all been taken.

Police are appealing for witnesses who saw the attack or the offender making his escape to come forward.

He is 5ft 5ins, slim and was wearing a light-coloured baseball cap, a blue jacket, dark baggy bottoms. He was wearing a white mask, described as a “decorators mask” over his face.