A MANHUNT is underway for a vile bag-snatching thug who targeted an 87-year-old woman in Glasgow's South Side.

The pensioner was mugged in Govanhill by a man who approached her in Hollybrook Street.

The robbery, which took place at around 5.45pm on Monday, is the third mugging to involve an OAP in Govanhill in recent weeks.

It is understood he managed to break the handbag strap before making off with its contents.

Police sources described the incident as "disgusting" and vowed to track down the thief.

Police said the 87-year-old had been left "distressed" by her ordeal.

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "Police are continuing inquires after an 87-year-old woman was robbed of her handbag and its contents in Hollybrook Street, Govanhill, Glasgow, around 5.45pm on Monday.

"She was not injured as a result of the incident but was left distressed by what had happened.

"Officers are in the area carrying out door-to-door enquiries and checking CCTV.

"Anyone with information can contact police at Gorbals Police Office on 101."

Last month, the Evening Times told how a gang of thugs attacked an elderly man in Govanhill Park for less than £50.

The 76-year-old victim was approached by four men who brutally attacked him in front of horrified parents and children.

Police blasted the thieves as "despicable".

Detective Constable Alan Evans, from Pollok CID, said: "This was a despicable attack on a vulnerable old man who has been left badly shaken by what happened."

The park and surrounding area was busy at the time and detectives have urged any potential witnesses to come for ward.

Police launched a probe in July after an elderly woman was robbed of jewellery.

The 73-year-old was walking in Allison Street, when a man approached her and grabbed her necklace, which had two rings on it.

The suspect made off down the street, leaving the woman shaken but uninjured.