A MUGGER was punched by a pensioner when he tried to steal his wallet in Potters Bar.

The incident happened at around 10pm in an alleyway between Cranborne Road and Furzefield Park on Sunday, March 13.

The victim, a man in his 70s, was walking his dog when he was struck on the head from behind by a man demanding his wallet.

The pensioner turned round and punched the mugger, before his dog reacted angrily and scared him off. Police think the offender may have been bitten.

The bungling thief ran off towards Furzefield Park, leaving the pensioner uninjured and with no property stolen.

The suspect is described as a man aged between 20 and 30, about 5ft 8ins tall, clean shaven with dark hair and a stocky build. He was wearing a dark hoody, with the hood up and dark trousers.

DC Clare Edlin, investigating from the Local Crime Unit, said: “This was an unpleasant and callous offence carried out on an elderly man, although fortunately the victim was uninjured.

“I am appealing for anyone with information, who witnessed the incident or saw a man running away from the alley at this time to come forward. The offender may also have been injured, which could help to identify him..

“I would like to encourage anyone with information to help solve this crime to contact me.”

Anyone with any information can ring DC Edlin via the non-emergency number 0845 33 00 222. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.