Thieves attack seven elderly women in separate incidents

And police said four of the incidents happened in Castleford this week.

A 68-year-old was assaulted by a man who attempted to steal her bag on Monday.

The victim fought off the mugger and he ran off empty handed.

Another 68-year-old had her bag stolen and a thief tried to snatch a 79-year-old’s bag in two incidents on Tuesday.

And on Thursday a 69-year-old woman also had her bag stolen.

Thieves also targeted two women, aged 81 and 76, in Garforth.

And a 76-year-old woman had her bag snatched in the Swillington on Sunday.

Three men have been arrested in connection with all the offences.

Det Insp Tim Hunt, of Wakefield CID, said: “Police are continuing to investigate this series of robberies and attempted alleged robberies which have taken place in Leeds and Castleford over the past few days.

“Elderly victims have been targeted in each case and it is fortunate no-one was seriously injured.

“Three men aged 22, 27 and 19 have been arrested in connection with all of the offences and they remain in custody today for questioning.”