Two teenagers snatched a pensioner's handbag but fled empty-handed after a passer-by gave chase.

The youths, aged between 14 and 16, approached the woman in Tarring Road, Worthing, and asked her for a light.

One of them grabbed her bag and they ran off.

The incident, at 5.30pm on February 19, was seen by a man in a car who chased them. The pensioner was unhurt.

Sergeant John Skelton said: "This was a callous and heartless crime against a vulnerable member of society."

The youths were both 5ft 10in tall, of medium build and were sharing a large bottle of orange fizzy drink.

One was wearing a light quilted puffer jacket and woollen hat.

Anyone with information should contact Mr Skelton on 0845 6070999.