A young mum was attacked as she carried her baby son on a busy footpath.

The hooded attacker grabbed the 19-year-old from behind as she walked along the path near to Marmion Street in Cumbernauld.

He pulled her down to the ground at around 11.30am on Tuesday.

She managed to protect her one-year-old son, but sustained an injury to her face.

Police are probing whether the thug was attempting to rob the young woman, or if he planned to harm her.

The suspect, who is described as around 6ft tall and of slim build, ran off without saying anything.

He was wearing a black hooded top and dark coloured jeans.

Police have been carrying out inquiries in the local area in an effort to find out more about the suspect.

Inspector Phil Rose said: "It's not clear why this man approached the woman and pulled her back, we don't know if he intended to rob her or if his intention was to harm her.

"The footpath is well used by local people and at that time of the day there would have been people out and about.

"If you know who this man is, or if you have any knowledge about him or the crime, please do get in touch with us."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cumbernauld Police Office on 101.