POLICE are warning Christmas shoppers to be on their guard against purse snatchers operating in Leigh, Atherton and Tyldesley.

Community safety officer Adrian Dolphin urged shoppers to take precautions and stay alert so that they do not end up victims.

He advised folk not to carry too much money and for women not to carry their purses in the hand or on top of shopping bags.

The officer said: "The thieves know just when to strike - when shoppers are examining goods and not paying attention to their surroundings."