VULNERABLE shoppers are being told to be on their guard following further reports of distraction thefts across Cheshire.

Offenders tend to target older people who are shopping in the supermarket.

Typically they watch their victim while they enter their card PIN into the checkout device.

Once the victim has placed their shopping in their car and their handbag on the passenger seat, one offender will distract the victim by asking for directions while an accomplice steals the victim’s bank card from their purse.

The offenders will then empty the victim’s account of cash either at cash machines or by going on a spending spree.

DCI Paul Beauchamp said: "Of concern to us is the fact that these thieves appear to target older shoppers when committing their crimes.

“We are again taking the opportunity to remind the public to be on their guard and to have an awareness of this type of crime and following simple crime prevention steps.

“Similarly, we want you to always check your bank statements for any inaccuracies or discrepancies, as credit card fraud may not be immediately apparent."

People are advised to keep their bag on their person, zipped or closed at all times, not to engage with strangers in unusual circumstances and to shield their PIN when entering it.