SHOPPERS have been put on the alert after purse thieves struck in a busy two centre.

Both thefts took place in Northallerton’s High Street early on Saturday afternoon.

An elderly lady from Barnard Castle had her purse taken from her bag while in the Cancer Research charity shop and a woman from Leyburn lost bank cards and cash when her purse was stolen while she was in Barkers or Boyes.

Police are now urging people to take advantage of the free purse chains that are available from Northallerton police station, to ensure that they are protected from thieves when out shopping.

PC Quita Passmore said: “It is important that residents and visitors to Northallerton are aware that there have been a couple of purse thefts reported recently.

“I urge people to be on their guard when out and about. Keep your bag closed and close to your body and be aware of who is around you at all times.”

Officers are also appealing to anyone who witnessed the purses being taken, or saw any suspicious behaviour in the High Street on Saturday to get in touch.

PC Passmore said: “Northallerton will have been very busy on Saturday afternoon, therefore it is possible that someone may have seen the thefts occur.”

Contact police on 0845 6060 247 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.

. For more advice about securing against purse thefts, visit northyorkshire.police.uk/pursethefts