A WOMAN was punched, thrown to the floor and dragged in a horrific robbery.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the woman was robbed at around 10pm in Bocking End near the council offices on Thursday night.

A police spokesman said: "She was then punched and thrown to the floor.

"The suspect dragged the victim along the floor before taking her handbag and running off towards St Peter’s Church.

"He has been described as being white, aged in his 40s, around 5ft 10ins and of a large build.

"The victim said he was wearing a dark coloured hoodie and dark trousers.

"We would like to hear from anyone who saw the incident or the man acting suspiciously before or after the attack.

"We would also like to hear from anyone with dash cam footage."

Call Braintree CID on 101 quoting crime reference 42/173635/19 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.