The 80-year-old had the door up in her garage and was waiting for a lift when she placed her bag down on the ground about 12.30pm on Monday.

Police have been told the woman walked out of the garage to collect her mail, just a few metres away, when the offender ran into the driveway, grabbed the handbag off the ground and fled on foot.

The man is described as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander in appearance with dark hair and was last seen wearing  white t-shirt and cap.

The woman’s handbag contained a wallet, cards, cash and a mobile phone.

Police were alerted and made several patrols of the area but could not find the offender or the handbag.

Officers searched Anthony Road on Tuesday morning but have confirmed the bag is still outstanding.

The woman was not injured and police are appealing for anyone who might have been in the Links Avenue, Susanne Street and Petra Avenue area at lunchtime on Monday to come forward.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or a male acting suspiciously is urged to contact Tamworth police on 6768 2999.