A HANDBAG was stolen after a woman was threatened at knifepoint in High Wycombe on Saturday.

The victim was getting out of her car in Wyatt Close at 5.25pm when she was approached by a man who threatened her with a knife.

He then ran off in the direction of Garratts Way after taking her handbag.

Thames Valley Police have today launched an appeal for witnesses to the attack to come forward.

Police say the robber was wearing a light grey hooded top with the hood up and had a scarf over his face, and was holding a shiny silver coloured knife in his right hand.

Investigating officer PC Sarah Simpson said: "I would like to reassure the local community that incidents such as these are extremely rare, and that Thames Valley Police is doing everything to bring the perpetrator to justice.

"I would appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident, saw anything suspicious in the area, or has any knowledge of the offence to contact police immediately via 101."

Witnesses can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.