SHOPPERS have been warned to stay vigilant following a number of purse thefts in Cheshire.

There have been a number of purse thefts near supermarkets in the areas covered by Crewe Local Policing Unit, which includes Nantwich, Sandbach, Alsager, Middlewich and Holmes Chapel.

Police from Crewe Local Policing Unit are advising shoppers to be on their guard while out doing their shopping.

As a further measure, purse bells which alert shoppers to would be thieves have been made available.

PCSO Lawrence Price said: “The offenders are noting pin numbers when the victims make a purchase at the till and then when they are distracted take the opportunity to steal their purse and use their cards before the victim realises their purse is missing and money has gone from their account.

"Our advice is for shoppers to keep their purses safe in their handbags and their handbags zipped and secured at all times."

Members of the public who would like a purse bell can pick one up from the help desk at Crewe Police Station or can attend a Police crime prevention stall hosted by PCSO Tracy Burndred at Tesco, Vernon Way, Crewe on Saturday 21 November 2015 from 10am to 2pm.

Anyone who sees suspicious activity should contact police on 101 and if you see suspicious activity at a till or in the car park, alert store security staff.