Shropshire shoppers warned to guard purses and wallets
Police have issued an early warning to Christmas shoppers in Shropshire to be on their guard against pick-pockets and purse snatchers.
They are urging people withdrawing cash from banks or post offices for Christmas shopping to remain alert at all times to avoid becoming victims of opportunist thieves.
The warning follows an incident in Wellington where a woman in her seventies withdrew £2,500 from a bank only to find the cash missing 35 minutes later.
She reported the money stolen from her zip-up handbag and the incident is being investigated.
Police Crime Risk Manager, Mr Charles Naylor, said: "This distressing incident serves as a reminder to make sure purses, wallets and other valuables are safely secured in bags or pockets.
"Sadly, there are unscrupulous people around who will not hesitate to take advantage if they see an opportunity for easy pickings. This is the time of year when people are carrying large sums of money to buy Christmas presents and the streets are busy with crowds of shoppers".
Mr Naylor said: "Be aware of who is around you and alert to anybody who stands very close or who might try and engage you in conversation or otherwise distract you.
"Keep all valuables such as purses at the bottom of a closed bag, out of easy reach of thieves and make sure handbags are securely fastened. Report any suspicious activity to store staff or the police".
He added: "Purse thefts are not a daily occurrence but are often committed in spates and people need to be alert during the run-up to Christmas, especially when darkness has fallen.
"Purse thieves usually prey on older people or otherwise those who are vulnerable, such as mothers out with their children who could be easily distracted, but everybody needs to be security conscious.
"Town centres will be very busy over the next few weeks and I urge people to take every possible precaution in looking after their valuables when out and about."
