Teenager who tried to rob 93-year-old woman spared jail

A teenager who "could have killed" a 93-year-old woman when he dragged her to the ground in an attempted mugging has walked free from court and been told to pay her £500 compensation.

Eva Jones thought she was a "goner" after she fell on her head in a struggle with her assailant as she grimly held on to her handbag at a bus stop in Chadderton, Greater Manchester.

She was targeted from behind as she stood alone in Turf Lane with her bag carried over her shoulder at about 11.45am on August 16th.

Her 17-year-old attacker and an accomplice fled the scene on foot as members of the public came to the pensioner's aid.

Remarkably, Mrs Jones was discharged from hospital within a number of hours despite suffering extensive bruising to her arms, legs and back but Tameside Youth Court heard she is experiencing constant headaches, persistent neck pain and flashbacks.

She said she felt "less safe" in her community but was more concerned that elderly neighbours more vulnerable than her were fearful of going out alone.

Amy Welch's report contains some images you may find distressing: