A WOMAN was attacked by two other women while she was walking her dog in York city centre.

North Yorkshire Police say the attempted robbery happened at about 8pm last Friday evening, when the victim, who is in her 50s and from Leeds, was walking her pet along Bootham.

"As she passed on the opposite side to the Raj restaurant and Sainsbury's, she was approached by two women who demanded money and a mobile phone before grabbing her and pushing her to the ground," said a force spokeswoman. "They left the scene empty-handed.

"The victim suffered grazing to her knees as a result of the attack, and she was very shocked and shaken up by what happened to her. Her dog was unharmed."

She said officers were appealing for witnesses, including a man, aged around 25, who was passing at the time and shouted at the pair to stop, to come forward.

The suspects were white and aged between 26 and 28, and both had dyed blonde hair. One had dark roots showing and was wearing a short-sleeved white top and blue jeans. The other woman was wearing a blue top and blue jeans and was carrying a handbag.

Acting Detective Sergeant Matt Wilkinson of York Serious Crime Team, said: "This was a disgraceful attack on a woman out walking her dog. I am appealing to anyone who witnessed what happened, in particular the young man who we believed disturbed the pair.

"I would also like to hear from anyone who can help us identify the suspects. Perhaps you know who they are or have heard them discussing the incident. If you can help us find those responsible, please contact us as soon as possible."

Anyone who has any information about the robbery is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option two and ask for York Serious Crime Team.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Quote reference number 12150174579 when passing on information.