SHOPPERS in Nelson are being warned to be on their guard against purse-dippers.

The warning comes in the wake of a spate of thefts from loan women, often while in charity shops.

The latest thefts involved shoppers who had been in stores and in the Arndale Centre.

A woman who had come to the area to visit friends on Saturday had £30 taken when her purse was taken from her handbag, possibly while she was in the Oxfam shop.

And on Monday a 30-year-old woman shopping in the Arndale had £60 taken from her coat pocket.

Police believe a fair-haired woman, 5ft 9in tall and wearing a white bubble-type jacket was responsible.

PC John Burgoyne said: "We have had quite a few reports of women shoppers having their purses dipped from their bags and their coat pockets.

"The best way to beat the thieves is not to give them the chance in the first place. It's always as well to double check that your purse is well secured and bags properly fastened.

"Pick pockets are quick workers. They bump into you for a second and the next thing you know is that your purse has gone."

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