Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was robbed on Thursday night.

The 23-year-old was approached by two men at around 7.45pm in Douglas Road, Goodmayes, as she walked towards Barley Lane.

She was punched in the left hand side of her body and face and told police she felt a sharp object in her side, although no weapon was seen.

The attack caused the woman to fall and drop her bag and phone, which the suspects then ran off with.

One was aged 19 to 25-year-old, with a muscular build, dark brown eyes and a deep voice.

He was wearing a white scarf round his face and the victim believes he is black.

The other is 18 to 25-years-old and of slim build. He is believed to be of Asian origin.

The woman was treated for her injuries at the scene but not taken to hospital.

Superintendant Ellie O’Connor, of Redbridge police, said: “We seldom see violent robberies of this nature so we are very concerned about this.

“If anyone saw anything suspicious on the evening of the event I urge them to give us a call.”