Police said today that two boys, aged 12 and 14, who robbed an 88-year-old woman in east Oxford, could be responsible for other crimes in the area, writes Emma Henry.

The pensioner, who has not been named, needed hospital treatment for a head injury after one of the boys snatched her bag in Barnet Street, causing her to lose her balance and hit her head on the pavement.

Det Sgt Dermot Norridge, of Oxford CID, said: "This was a cynical attack. The woman had been shopping and she was walking back home when a tussle began, which caused her to lose her balance.

"The age of these offenders is concerning. "It was a frightening attack for the lady and we need to catch those responsible."

He said officers were not linking the attack to any other robberies, but they believed the pair may be committing other offences.

He said: "There may be a bit of a crimewave going on."

The attack happened at 1pm on Friday. The pensioner was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital, but was discharged after treatment.

She was today being cared for at home by her family.

The two boys are both white with short light-brown hair. The 12-year-old wore a blue top. Police believe they are local to the Magdalen Road, Barnet Street and Cowley Road area in east Oxford and are continuing door-to-door inquiries.

Anyone with information should contact Oxford Police on 01865 266333.