HYNDBURN police are warning pensioners to be on their guard following a spate of handbag snatches in the town.

Vulnerable, elderly women are the main targets, with several being attacked. They have had their bags ripped from them outside post offices after collecting their pensions and from outside various shops.

Now police have issued guidelines to help the elderly beat the thugs.

Among the tips is to keep handbags close to their body and be aware of people approaching from the front or rear.

A police spokesman said: "They should not put their bag down where it can be easily stolen and if someone does snatch their bag then they should not put up a fight or they may be injured.

"They should get as good a description as possible and tell the police immediately. If suitably dressed, then purses and keys should be kept in a coat pocket."

Other tips are:

Do not leave a purse on top of a shopping bag or pram.

Avoid unlit or deserted car parks or other areas.

Do not carry excessive amounts of money in handbags.

Don't carry credit cards and cheque book in the same bag.

Carry large amounts of cash in separate places.

Take the safest and busiest route when walking to and from destinations.

Walk facing on-coming traffic.

Keep away from areas where you cannot be seen by the public.

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