Former BBC newsreader Jan Leeming left with six-inch gash on arm after being mugged at cashpoint and

FORMER BBC newsreader Jan Leeming has been left “black and blue” with a six-inch gash on her arm after being mugged at a cashpoint.

The 80-year-old said the thief “rugby tackled” her to the ground before trying to steal her handbag in her “sleepy little village” in France.

She said it was carried out by a “youngish man who seemed pleasant”.

Jan said: “He extended his hand. I thought it was a friendly gesture — that’s when he tackled me to the ground.”

She added: “It was horrid but well orchestrated, with a getaway car.

“My head was very close to an oncoming car.

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“I’m grateful he didn’t get my bag with my cards and phone.”

It comes 35 years after Jan was mugged near the BBC’s HQ in London.

She said the latest attack “brought back memories” of that incident.

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