POLICE fear an elderly person could die unless a mugger targeting pensioners is caught.

The Argus has previously highlighted investigations in to a spate of muggings in Cwmbran.

Now officers are linking the attacks - and believe the man has targeted at least seven women just for their handbags.

His latest victim was 76-year-old Catherine Brooks, pictured, who suffered a cracked rib when she was stamped on by her attacker.

Other elderly victims have also been injured - one is still in hospital after suffering a broken hip.

Detective Sergeant Jim Loughlin, of Cwmbran police, said: "He is cowardly, picking on the vulnerable.

"We are worried that next time he attacks an elderly person they could die."

Mrs Brooks, who has had a quadruple bypass, was attacked while walking her dog, Jazz, down a lane running next to Cwmbran Drive.

She said: "I saw a young chap sitting on top of the seat, he was well dressed and clean and I didn't think he was suspicious."

Mrs Brooks noticed he was following her, and as he walked passed her he turned and grabbed her handbag.

She added: "He came along and he was talking into a phone, and then at that point he turned and just went for me.

"He got me down on the ground and kept trying to take my bag. I was determined not to let it go.

"I was hitting him with my walking- stick, but he took it off me and then kicked me."

The man ran off, taking her bag which contained her purse and keys.

After the attack Mrs Brooks crawled on her knees before managing to stand up and get help.

She added: "I have had a quadruple bypass and I was frightened how the attack would affect me."

The attack took place on Wednesday at about 3.50pm.

Her attacker is described as a white male, about 17, with short dark hair.

He was well dressed and clean shaven, and Mrs Brooks described him as well spoken.

Mrs Brooks is appealing for people with information to come forward.

She said: "If people know who it is, please go to the police. There must be something wrong with him for him to do that."

Police want to speak to a man walking his dog around the time of the attack, and anyone who was using the Halfway Inn car park that day. Contact Cwmbran CID on 01633 642358.