OFFICERS are hoping CCTV footage from three pickpocket thefts in Blackburn featured on the BBC’s Crimewatch programme will help them trace those responsible.

The televised appeal has already resulted in a number of new calls with information.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Police said the pickpockets loitered around the Halifax Bank, in King William Street, Blackburn, where they saw their victim withdraw £2,500 from inside the bank.

They then followed the him through the town centre, stealing the money from his pocket when he was distracted.

Both women were described as Eastern European. One was in her early 40s and was wearing glasses and a dark coat. Police believe this woman is Stoiana Drumitru who also goes by the name Tantrica Costea, but they need help identifying her whereabouts.

The other woman, thought to be in her early 20s, was wearing a bobble hat and remains unidentified.

The incident, which happened at around 3pm on May 27, appeared on an episode of Crimewatch on Tuesday night, marking the show’s 30th anniversary.

Police would also like to trace witnesses to a similar theft in the town centre.

It happened on June 6 at about 2pm when the victim withdrew £1,500 from the Nationwide Building Society in King William Street and then had the money stolen from their handbag.

Police have identified Stoiana Drumitru as the woman wearing a distinctive red head scarf. The other woman was wearing a hat.

Officers would also like to speak to a further two women in connection with a third theft in the same area.

This incident happened on July 3 at about 2pm when the victim withdrew £600 from the Nationwide Building Society and £600 from the Natwest Bank, both in King William Street.

The offenders followed the victim through the town centre and took the money from a shopping bag.

Both women were described as Eastern European. One was wearing a light coloured coat and trousers and has been identified by police as Ivanka Krasteva Vasileva.

The other unidentified woman was wearing a dark coloured coat.

PC Lisa Elding-Parry said: “We are hoping that the Crimewatch appeal will encourage those with information about the identity and whereabouts of those responsible for the crimes in May and June, to get in touch.”

Contact police on 101 quoting the reference LC-20140911-0802 or ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.