CHURCHGOERS in Malvern are urged to be on the alert after a spate of purse or handbag thefts.

The latest reported incident was at the United Reformed Church in Malvern Link last Friday (July 29) between 11.45am and 12.45pm.

A blue leather purse left on a trolley near the vestry was stolen. A "suspicious" man with a tattoo on his neck had been seen in the church earlier that day, asking "strange questions", according to the police report.

On Sunday, July 24, a purse was stolen from Christ Church, Avenue Road, during a coffee morning following the service.

And on Monday, June 27, a handbag containing a purse was stolen from the office at St Joseph's RC Church in Newtown Road, Link Top, between 11am and 12.30pm.

St Matthias in Malvern Link and a church in Abbey Road have also reported thefts over the same period and police are appealing for witnesses.

The thefts have happened either during services when the purse owners have gone up for Holy Communion and left their bags on the pew, or during coffee mornings.

Rev Peter Knight of St Matthias said: "Churches' openness and hospitality are part of the expression of the graciousness of God, and if we were to lose that, it would make what we do meaningless. It's a risk every church must take. But at the same time, we can urge people to be aware, to keep their purses and bags with them and just be cautious."

PC Jo Elliott said: "We are currently investigating a number of purse thefts that have occurred at churches in Malvern and are really keen to hear from anyone who may have information.

"You may have seen somebody acting suspiciously or perhaps noticed a new face at church that may not have been back since. No matter how small it might seem, I would urge you to contact us.

"I would also like to remind the Malvern community to remain vigilant and pay particularly close attention to purses and handbags. Make sure you keep valuables on you at all times and secure on your person."

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Among the incident numbers are 0618s/290716 for the United Reformed Church theft and 0595/s270616 for the St Joseph's incident.

A 47-year-old man from Malvern has been arrested on suspicion of theft and bailed until August 31.