Woman foils knifepoint robbery bid with handbag

A BRAVE Lurgan woman has spoken of a “terrifying” experience after she chased off a knife-wielding robber with her hand bag.

The 61-year-old, who did not want to be identified, was attacked as she made her way home on Saturday night (April 16) after attending a show in Belfast’s Grand Opera House.

“I got the train home from Belfast and was offered a lift home,” she said.

“However, it was such a lovely evening I decided to walk home.

“I made my way through Shankill, then took a shortcut through the alleyway at Sloan Street into Manor Park. It was around 9.30pm.

“I saw the young fella at the top of Francis Street. As he crossed the road he kept his head down and pulled the zip on his jacket over his face. I didn’t think anything of it at the time.”

She continued: “As I made my way along the alleyway, I was attacked. I didn’t hear anything, but I felt somebody close behind me.