HUNDREDS of pounds were stolen from two female workers at a North-East hospital yesterday.

The women had bank cards taken from their handbags at Darlington Memorial Hospital between 8am and noon.

They were then contacted by somebody claiming to be from their bank who asked for personal details.

Both revealed their card pin numbers and cash was withdrawn from their accounts in Newcastle later in the day.

Inspector Brian Maudling, of Darlington police, said one of the victims had £500 stolen and the other about £150.

"The bank cards were taken from handbags in a department in the hospital," he said. "The offender has then contacted the women by telephone and said the cards have been recovered and has asked them to confirm their pin numbers."

Insp Maudling warned people not to leave their belongings unattended and to be wary of anyone asking for bank details over the phone.

"Never give out pin numbers," he said. "A legitimate bank will never ask you for your pin number.

"If people do have contact from any banks and are unsure about what to do, call the bank back before giving any details. Call the police if you have any suspicions."

A hospital spokesman said: "We are co-operating fully with police and we have sent a note round to staff alerting them to this."

Anyone with information about the thefts is asked to call police on (01325) 467681.