A WOMAN was punched in the face and robbed as she made her way to a tram station in Whitefield.

The 29-year-old was walking along Thatch Leach Lane towards Besses o’ th’ Barn Metrolink station shortly after 6am last Friday when she passed two men on mountain bikes.

As she walked up the platform to the stop, the victim — who was on her way to work — felt someone grabbing at her bag from her shoulder.

She turned around and noticed it was one of the men she had seen on a bicycle.

The woman refused to release her bag and the robber punched her in the face before running off with her bag, which had a small amount of cash and a mobile phone in it.

The victim suffered cuts and bruising to her jaw and mouth, and was shaken up by the violent ordeal.

Police are trying to identify the men, both of whom were black and about 30 years old. One was stocky while the other was of average build. Both were riding mountain bikes and wearing dark clothing.

PC Paul Boothwell, of Whitefield police, said: “While the attack happened relatively early, I am hopeful there would have been other people also going to work who may have seen what happened.”

He added: “If you noticed anything or think you know who these two on bikes are please call the police on 0161 856 9594.”