An 89-year-old woman was hospitalised after being attacked on Lawrie Park Gardens. Photo: Google Streetview

An elderly woman has been left devastated after being robbed and seriously injured as she walked to her Sydenham home last Friday.

The 89-year-old was carrying shopping bags through Lawrie Park Gardens at around 16:20 when confronted by a man who stole her handbag, knocked her to the floor and fled.

Another local resident found the woman ten minutes later, suffering from severe injuries. Paramedics and officers from Lewisham police arrived and took her to a south London hospital.

“This is an extremely unusual and upsetting incident,” said investigating officer, Trainee Detective Constable Sue Riggs. “It has had a devastating effect on the victim, who is a vulnerable and elderly woman.”

“We are keen to trace a man dressed in grey clothing who ran away from the area at approximately 16:30. If anyone saw or heard anything around Lawrie Park Gardens on Friday afternoon please contact Lewisham CID.”

The stolen handbag was black, had three zip pockets and had handles rather than straps. It contained £120 cash, house keys and a new passport.

Anyone with information should call Lewisham CID on 020 8284 8414, or 07788 916 864. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.