POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a 34-year-old woman was robbed at knifepoint in Beckett Street, Oxford.

The student was walking with her five-year-old son at about 10pm on Tuesday, September 26, when a mixed race man, in his late 20s with three-inch long curly hair, approached her and threatened her with a knife before snatching her shoulder bag. He then ran off across the railway footbridge in Osney Lane, which leads into Mill Street.

Dick Evans, of Oxford Robbery Team, said: "The offender's threatening behaviour towards the victim was totally unnecessary and has left her in a very distressed state. Fortunately neither her, nor her son, were injured.

"Her black shoulder bag contained several hundred pounds worth of property, and I would ask anyone who may have seen a black bag discarded in the Botley Road area to come forward. Equally, if you witnessed the attack or have any information as to who the offender may be, it is vital you get in touch with me on 0845 8 505505 or, if you don't wish to speak to police or leave your name, you can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

"Due to a language barrier, the full circumstances of this case have only recently been established."