Two women had their handbags snatched in Keighley town centre in the early hours of yesterday.

Police believe the incidents, which happened within about 15 minutes of each other, may be linked.

Both women had been to the Blush nightclub in North Street and were walking in the direction of the library when the attacks took place.

In the first incident, at about 2.45am, a woman in her early 20s was engaged in conversation by a man who then grabbed her bag and ran off. The handbag - in black fake leather with the words River Island on it - contained cash, a cheque book, mobile phone and green leather purse.

The assailant is described as about 5ft 8in tall and between 20-30 years old and he was wearing a grey hoody.

The second victim fell to the ground as she tried to keep hold of her bag, after she was attacked from behind. But the man escaped with the bag, containing cash, a mobile phone and driving licence.

She was shaken but uninjured.

The suspect is described as about 6ft tall, aged around 30 and with dark hair. He was wearing a long-sleeved shirt.

Detective Inspector John Mountain, of Keighley CID, said: "There are differences in the descriptions, but the close proximity of the incidents and the timescale involved suggests that they are linked.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen what happened in either case or has any information that could help us."

People are asked to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or Keighley CID on 01535 617085.