Robber jailed after woman loses plaque

Although the bag was subsequently found with some of her personal items still in it she was upset to discover the plaque was missing, Robert Galley prosecuting told Leeds Crown Court yesterday.

The victim saw two young men nearby as she walked along Dewsbury Road in Leeds having been at the Tommy Wass public house.

She then suddenly felt her bag being grabbed from behind by one of the men who also had hold of her jacket collar swinging her around as he tried to take it.

Eventually he succeeded when she was pulled backwards landing heavily on her hip and leaving her shaking and feeling sick.

She rang her brother and sister for help and the police. The bag was found in an alley, personal photos inside were examined and fingerprints on them led to Phillip Michael Brierley one of those involved.

Brierley, 24 of Waincliffe Place, Beeston, Leeds, was jailed for 12 months after admitting robbery.

Ian Cook representing Brierley said he was not the one who stole the bag, being a follower rather than a leader, but knew the other man was doing it and shared the proceeds.

Judge Rodney Grant told him it was a nasty offence.