A teenager attempted to rob an elderly woman in a “violent attack”.

The incident occurred at around 11:45am on Monday, October 19 outside shops in London Road, Enfield.

Metropolitan Police says Alexandrina Mitkova, 19, approached an 84-year-old woman from behind as she was heading home and grabbed her handbag.

She grappled with the victim and pushed her in the chest, police said.

Mitkova was able to pull the bag with such force that a strap was broken and the elderly woman fell into the road and hit her knee.

Several passers-by witnessed the incident and stepped in to help the victim.

They detained Mitkova at the scene and called the police.

Officers attended and she was arrested. She was charged on Tuesday, October 20 and had been remanded in custody since then.

Mitkova, of no fixed address, appeared at Wood Green Crown Court on Thursday, December 10 for sentencing having previously pleading guilty to attempted robbery.

She was sentenced to two years’ detention in a young offender institution.

Investigating officer, PC Billy Crosby, said: “This was a violent attack on a vulnerable elderly lady who was merely walking home from the shops. Despite sustaining injuries I am pleased that she has now recovered and I hope she is able to move on with her life.

“I would like to pay tribute to the members of the public who intervened, assisting the victim and detaining the suspect. Mitkova may never have been brought to justice without their brave actions.”