A BRAVE woman tackled a would-be mugger in Priory Park with the help of a courageous passer-by and managed to save her handbag.

The 39-year-old woman was walking through the park, near Middle Lane, Hornsey, at 11am on Monday, July 26, when she was stopped by the young suspect carrying what appeared to be a handgun.

As he tried to wrench her purse from her arms, she refused to let go even when he battered her wrists with the butt of the gun.

A passer-by heard the victim's screams and came to her rescue.

Her attacker ran off empty-handed while the have-a-go hero chased the man along Middle Lane and High Street, Hornsey, but he escaped.

Haringey police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information about the attack to come forward.

The attempted robber is described as a young black man, aged between 15 and 19, about 5ft 8ins tall wearing a hooded top and dark trousers.

A 16-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of robbery has been bailed to return to police on August 12 pending further enquiries.

Police and paramedics attended the scene, and the victim was treated at a north London hospital for bruising and swelling to her wrist.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Rob Spearman of Haringey CID on 020 8345 0870, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.