EastEnders actor Ryan Philpott frightened off a mugger who attacked an elderly neighbour last week.

The 34-year-old chased away the thug after witnessing Jeanette Banfield being robbed outside her home.

Philpott, who played PC Kenny Morris in 2007, told The Sun: "Anyone would have done what I did."

The assailant, who was white, slim and wore a striped top, stole Banfield's mobile phone and handbag. She was left with a broken wrist and severe facial bruising.

Police described the attack on the 74-year-old as "particularly vicious".