The New Hall Lane junction with Acregate Lane where the incident happened Pic: Google Maps

Preston police are appealing for information after a woman shouted racist abuse before robbing another woman.

The incident took place on Tuesday in New Hall Lane near to the junction with Acregate Lane.

The 22-year-old victim was walking home around 7.40pm when a young woman shouted racist abuse at her and crossed the road.

Police say the victim was threatened and demanded she empty her pockets. A small amount of cash was handed over.

The woman then made her way home but was followed by the offender, who pushed past her as she entered her house.

The downstairs of the victim’s home was searched but the offender left empty handed.

Police have released a description of the woman wanted in connection with the incident saying she is white, 5’4″, aged between 18 to 20, slim build, blonde hair tied in a ponytail with brown highlights.

She was wearing a grey hooded top, black leggings, white and blue trainers, and was carrying a black and pink satchel style back.

DS Andy Dixon from Preston CID said: “This was a terrifying experience for the victim, made worse by the fact that the offender has actually followed her back to where she lives and has then entered her house.

“I am determined to find this woman and urge anyone who may have witnessed this incident or who may have seen the offender in the area at the time to contact us.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting incident reference 1264 of 7 April 2015.

Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.