Police hunt man after woman has gold necklace snatched from neck in Sydney street

A cowardly thief sneaked up behind a 79-year-old woman and ripped a gold chain from her neck as she walked down a Sydney street.

Police have released images of a man they want to speak to about the attack on Leyland Parade, Belmore, in the city's south west, at 11.40am on 12 July.

The woman was allegedly approached from behind by a man who grabbed the chain she was wearing. The chain broke and the man ran off with part of it, including a crucifix.

Police said they would like to speak to a man in his 30s with olive skin, a skinny build, thick curly hair and a moustache.

He was last seen wearing a dark blue jumper with a white Nautica motif, dark tracksuit pants and black joggers.

She was on her daily walk to the shops with her shopping trolley when the attack happened.

It has been described as "opportunistic" and has left the woman traumatised and scared to leave her home.

The necklace and crucifix are said to be sentimental to the victim.

Police called it a "disgusting crime" on one of the communities "most vulnerable".

Dep Inspector Paul Albury, said: "This has had a significant effect on her life and how she goes about her day-to-day affairs."

Anyone with information should to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/