A WOMAN walking through Cintra park had her mobile phone and bank cards stolen by a mugger.

The 37-year-old was nearing the car park at 12.15pm on Monday, June 26, when a man thought to be in his 20's tried to strike up a conversation.

He then tried to snatch her handbag before fleeing through the car park and into Northumberland Road.

His victim saw the robber flee into Newcastle Road before losing slight of him.

Now Thames Valley Police are appealing for witnesses, particularly two men who were playing basket ball nearby.

The offender is around 5ft 7ins tall with blonde hair and a blonde scraggly beard.

He was wearing light denim jeans and may have been wearing a denim jacket.

He spoke with a local accent.

The mugger made off with the woman's gold Samsung phone in a black synthetic case and some bank cards.

Investigating officer PC Jennifer Cox, based at Reading police station, said: “A number of people were in the park at the time of the offences and may have seen or heard the incident.

“In particular I believe that two men were playing basketball near to where the incident occurred and might have information which could help our investigation.

“If you have any details which you think could be useful, please call the Thames Valley Police non-emergency number on 101 quoting reference 43170188170."