A 73-YEAR-OLD woman was pushed over and had her shopping trolley taken during a callous robbery in Clacton town centre

The brave pensioner has been left distraught at the loss of her trolley, described by detectives as her “lifeline”.

She was walking in the town’s West Avenue at about 5pm on Sunday when a man pushing a bike walked past and shoved his shoulder into her.

She was knocked over and the man cycled off with her tartan shopping trolley, which contained her bank cards, phone, keys and handbag.

The suspect made off in the direction of Park Road before turning left and then out of sight.

The victim walked to a nearby home and police were called to the scene.

Investigating officer Det Con Mike Evans, of Clacton CID, said: “The trolley was the woman’s life line, as she used it as a walking aide.

“She is very independent and likes to walk long distances with her trolley, either to go shopping or meet with friends.

“She is assisting us and she has been very brave.

“The trolley was very distinctive and it would have been usual to see someone holding one while riding a bike.

“The victim desperately wants it back.”

Clacton MP Giles Watling hit out at the "despicable" robber for targeting a vulnerable pensioner.

He said: "This is why I'm campaigning to make targeting elderly people an aggravating offence in law.

"We need tougher sentences for those who target the vulnerable and the elderly - we need to make them think twice before they go down that road.

"This was a despicable act and my thoughts are with the victim."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Clacton CID in 101 quoting crime reference 42/168743/18 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.