Sorry to hear what happened to you Mitchy999. And I hope you feel better - and safe again - soon.
LM2011, I have to agree with Fish Face, though, that it's still a rare occurrence. I've lived in SE London all my life... Camberwell, East Dulwich, Brockley, Blackheath, Ladywell and now HOP and I've never once been mugged or had anything bad happen to me in 40years, despite hundreds of late nights home along dimly lit streets. Admittedly I've employed tactics, like not taking a handbag out and putting things in my pockets instead, walking down the middle of the street, keeping my keys, phone and wallet in separate places,not having anything of value on display, walking positively without showing fear etc.
As for the positives - I dropped my phone in HOP recently and someone kindly traced me by phoning my mum to find my address and give it back. I lost my wallet in Lewisham last week and had five people (all random shoppers) helping me look for it. I found it - it had been handed in without penny taken.
Of course there are some nasty people out there, but that's the case anywhere in the country. I tend to think these things go in cycles - the recession brings out the worst in people, as well as the best.
Yes, be careful, but don't let one or two incidences stop you from living your life!