A WOMAN who had two bags snatched from her may have failed to hear the thief because she was listening to a personal stereo.

Redditch police are reminding pedestrians to be particularly careful when using personal sound systems because it may make them more vulnerable to opportunist criminals.

The woman was walking from the town centre along Evesham Road on Friday at about 12.20am.

Just before she reached the Headless Cross traffic lights, a man cycled up behind her and snatched her two bags before riding off towards Mason Road.

One bag was a luminous green River Island carrier bag and the other a black leather handbag containing a passport, bank-cards, CDs and make-up.

The thief was white, 17 to 19 years old, 5ft 8ins tall and of medium build. He had a round face and wide nose and was wearing a black hooded top with the hood up and light-coloured baggy trousers.

DC Wayne Cashion, from Redditch CID, said: "People should be aware this has happened and be vigilant. Keep an eye out for who's around you and take extra care if using a personal stereo."

Anyone with information can call police on 08457 444888.