SHOPPERS have been put on the alert and warned to be extra vigilant as a spate of purse thefts continues in the Hambleton district.

Over the last month there were 18 reported purse thefts in Thirsk and Northallerton, prompting officers to carry out extra patrols.

The thefts have been carried out via a number of methods. Sometimes purses have been left on open display, on top of handbags or in shopping trolleys, inviting thieves to take them.

Other thieves have been adopting more sophisticated distraction methods, often targeting older women shopping alone.

The latest purse theft incident occurred last Friday in the Thirsk Tesco car park.

The victim was approached by a woman asking for change for the telephone. As she checked her purse for the money, the offender took a small black wallet containing credit and loyalty cards from her handbag.

PC Jon Grainge of the local Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "We are appealing to people to be extra careful with their belongings when out shopping.

"There have been a number of purse thefts in the area recently and although we are working hard to stamp out incidents of this nature, it is important that shoppers are vigilant.

"It is important to be wary of strangers asking for change or help as, although they may appear genuine, there is every chance they could be potential thieves."

An effective way of protecting purses from being stolen is to use a security chain which connects the purse to your handbag preventing it from being removed easily.

Anyone with information relating to purse thefts in the area should contact PC Grainge on 0845 6060 247. Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.