THIEVES have targeted elderly shoppers in a series of purse thefts.

Police have issued advice to shoppers following the thefts, which all took place in Kidderminster on Wednesday, December 20.

A purse containing £200 was stolen from a woman's bag in T J Hughes at about 12.15pm. It is believed the bag was open.

Then a wallet, containing £60 cash, bank cards and pin numbers was stolen in Sainsbury's between 12.30pm and 3pm - the cards were used to withdraw £800.

Between noon and 1pm, a purse, containing £16 cash was stolen shortly after its owner withdrew money from a bank.

The victim, who was in the Card Warehouse when she discovered the theft, had also been in the Post Office and Woolworths.

Kidderminster Police have been handing out alarms for shoppers to attach to purses, which sound the alert if someone tries to steal them.

Police, who will be carrying out patrols in the town centre, have urged shoppers to be vigilant, especially if someone tries to distract them or brush against them.

People have been warned not to carry around large sums of money and never keep PIN numbers with bank cards.

Instead, they could consider keeping purses/wallets in an inside coat pocket or bum bag worn around the front of the waist. They are also being advised to keep handbags close, zipped up or firmly fastened with purses at the bottom or in an inner compartment.

Police are asking people to remind older or vulnerable friends, relatives or neighbours of these precautions.

Anyone with information about the thefts has been asked call police on 08457 444888 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.