RESIDENTS living at Gheluvelt Court, in Worcester, have been handed golden bells to attach to their purses and wallets to deter pick-pockets.

The Safety Neighbourhood Team went along this week and PCSO Linda Pawley and PC Paul Cound distributed the bells which alert the owner that someone is tampering with their bag or wallet.

The team reminded residents that is was easy to be distracted at this time of year when shops are busy.

Residents also took the opportunity to have their items property marked.