POLICE have just released security camera footage which appears to show a woman who allegedly stole a handbag in Worcester city centre nearly six months ago.

The pictures, taken from a CCTV system, seem to reveal a woman reaching under a desk at Worcester Library in Foregate Street to steal the bag, which contained two mobile phones.

The woman is described as white, aged between 18 and 25, of plump build and with black hair pulled back into a ponytail.

The theft occurred on Tuesday, January 11, at about 11.30am.

"While we appreciate that the incident took place near the beginning of the year, it is the woman's image that is now crucial to our investigations," said a spokesman for Worcester Police.

"We are hopeful that someone will see it, recognise her and tell us where we can find her."

Anyone who believes that they know the woman's identity is asked to call police on 08457 444888, ask for Alison Tyres on extension 4079 and quote 0274S/110105.