A woman was “smacked round the back of her head” as her handbag was snatched by thieves on mopeds in Wallington.

The victim, who has not been named, was crossing Woodcote Road in the evening of February 18 before she was attacked by the two men.

She “lost absolutely everything”, with her bag also containing the money she had just been paid, while the suspects fled before witnesses could catch them.

Her daughter Toni says she is a “bag of nerves” after coming down from Yorkshire to comfort her mum following the attack.

Police say they have seized what they believe to be the vehicle involved in the incident.

The incident comes following several reports of other alleged robberies – particularly involving mopeds – in Sutton over recent weeks.

Sutton police say they are aware of a “recent increase” in moped-enabled crimes in the borough and are currently carrying out an investigation to track those responsible.

A Scotland Yard spokeswoman confirmed officers were called to reports of a robbery in Woodcote Road shortly before 7.30pm on February 18.

She added: “It is believed the victim, a woman in her 50s, was walking along the road when she was approached by the two men on a moped.

“One of the men struck her on the head before grabbing her handbag and riding away from the scene.

“The vehicle believed to be involved in the incident was later located and seized by police.”

No arrests have been made at this stage while investigations remain ongoing.

People with information are being urged to contact police on 101, or if someone sees a crime taking place, to dial 999 in an emergency.

You can also contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.