POLICE claim a scheme to combat purse thefts, with pensioners being given bells for their purses, has received an "overwhelming response".

About 500 bells, similar to the type cats wear on their collars, were handed out at the Swan shopping centre in Kidderminster on Saturday.

The joint initiative, by Kidderminster police and Kidderminster Retail Initiative and Safety Programme - KRISP - came after 30 reported purse thefts between April and the middle of August.

Helen Dyke, KRISP's crime reduction co-ordinator, said: "There was a queue of people waiting for the bells and we gave them all away in three-and-a-half hours. Several days later people were still coming in and asking for them."

Kidderminster resident, Joan Legelly, who has been a victim of distraction burglary in the town centre, was one of the over-50s who took advantage of the give-away.

She said: "Having my handbag stolen was a shattering experience and I wouldn't wish it on anybody. If anything can be devised to stop this happening to others then I am all for it."

It is hoped the bells will alert the owners or passers-by to the fact someone has attempted to steal their purse.

Sgt Louise Meeson, of Kidder-minster police, said: "It is a simple and relatively cheap idea."