CCTV images have been released showing two women who police want to speak to in connection with a town centre purse theft.

After the purse was stolen a bank card was used to fund a shopping spree before a large amount of money was withdrawn from a cash machine.

The two women were captured by CCTV cameras in B&M Bargains in Union Street, Accrington, shortly after the purse was stolen in the town centre.

And police have released the stills as they would like to speak to them in connection with the theft.

Police said the stolen card was used shortly after the theft at 2.45pm on Friday, January 4, in the Copper Kettle restaurant, Warner Street, Accrington.

Officers said the thieves made off from the restaurant in a grey car before visiting B&M.

The thieves then travelled to Rawtenstall, where another stolen card from the purse was used to withdraw a "substantial" amount of money from the Halifax bank in Dearden Gate, police said.

An investigation is underway and police are urging anyone with information about who is responsible to come forward.

PC Steve Hilton said: "I appeal to the women in the CCTV image to come forward so if necessary they can be discounted from our inquiries."

One of the women is described as approximately 5ft 8ins tall, with dark skin and dark, shoulder-length hair.

She has high cheek bones, a slim build and does not speak with a local accent.

The second woman was approximately 5ft 6ins with a larger build.

She has jet black hair in a bob and had round face.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0845 1 25 35 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.