The incident happened at around 9.50pm, in West Richmond Street, close to Nicolson Street. It was the second such theft to happen in that street in the past week, after a 25-year-old woman had her handbag snatched on Wednesday evening (October 24th).

Police believe the two incidents to be linked, and are appealing for information to help them track down the man responsible.

In the latest incident, the 36-year-old victim was approached from behind by the man, who wrestled the handbag from her grasp.

He made off towards the Pleasance, and was seen to enter New Arthur Place and then Viewcraig Gardens.

The man is described as white, 5ft 10ins tall, 25 to 28 years, with a slim/athletic build and short ginger/fair hair. He was wearing a royal blue round neck jumper, blue denim jeans and dark coloured shoes.

A police spokesman said: 'This is the second such theft to take place in the same street in the space of a week, and we are anxious to track down the person responsible as soon as possible.

'Neither woman was injured as a result of these incidents but they were understandably shaken by their respective ordeals.

'We want anyone who witnessed these incidents, or who has information to help us identify the suspect, to contact us as soon as possible.'

Anyone with information can contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.

Local Police News and Information