The woman was strolling along Blackwatch Pass, Pembroke, at around 11 a.m. on Monday when the thief struck.

She felt someone snatch the purse -- containing cash and personal papers -- from her handbag.

And as she turned around she fell to the ground, suffering a badly bruised elbow and scratches to both knees.

She was eventually taken to Hamilton by a gardener.

Police have now appealed for witnesses to the incident, and particularly want two cyclists to come forward.

The cyclists passed the scene of the theft shortly afterwards. One, a woman, stopped, while the other, a man, continued.

Police spokesman Sgt. John Dale said the thief was brown skinned, between 5ft 7in and 5ft 10in, and had close cropped hair. He wore blue jeans.

Sgt. Dale added there was a strong possibility someone might have seen the man running towards Marsh Folly, or in that area.

Anyone who can help Police should ring Det. Chief Insp. Carlton Adams on 295-0011.