A POLICE force has been mocked mercilessly online after releasing an e-fit of a suspected robber who looks "like the Grim Reaper."

Leicestershire Police issued the image of the crook who attacked a woman while wearing what appeared to be a sinister black cloak over his head.

Cops are hunting the man in connection with a robbery of a woman outside a house in Springfield Close, Broughton Astley, Leics.

The woman arrived at the property at around 1.15am on October 29 when she was grabbed by a man who demanded cash.

The thug fled the scene when he realised the victim had no money but she suffered minor injuries.

After police issued the e-fit, social media users compared the image to the Grim Reaper, while others joked it looked like the "Scottish Widows advert".

Writing on Facebook, Scott Johnson said: "Looks like police hunting for black cloak wearing robber, last seen holding a Scythe. Also goes by the name 'Death'. Do not approach."

A Twitter user posted: "Watch out residents in Leicestershire. Scottish Widows robbing women!"

Detective Constable Stephanie Burnham said: "We have been carrying out full enquiries into this incident and are now releasing this image as part of these ongoing enquiries.

"If you recognise the person described in the e-fit image please make contact as we believe this person could help us with our enquiries.

"Anyone with any other information regarding the incident who has not yet made contact with us should also get in touch."

A similar incident occurred the previous month in nearby Leicester in which CCTV footage captured a robber brutally dragging a woman into a road and kicking her as she fought back.