POLICE in Accrington are warning shoppers in the town centre to watch out for pick-pockets.

Two shoppers were targeted on Saturday by thieves who dipped into handbags.

Both crimes occurred within half an hour of each other in town centre shops.

Now officers investigating the crimes are warning they may be linked and say that shoppers, especially the elderly, should be on their guard.

In the first theft, at 2.15-2.30pm, a 52-year-old woman was shopping in the Market Hall, Broadway, when a thief stole a purse and its contents, including £100 cash, from the victim's bag carried on her arm.

In the second theft, a 92-year-old woman was shopping in Marks and Spencer at about 2.40pm. Police believe a thief unzipped the shopper's handbag while she was distracted and stole a purse containing £25.

In both cases CCTV cameras failed to pick up any trace of the thief.

Sergeant Claire Holbrook said: "These individuals are preying on the elderly while they shop unaware in the town centre.

"While we treat these matters extremely seriously and are investigating who the culprit is, I would urge all shoppers to bear in mind that these individuals are much practised at covertly stealing items from shoppers.

"I must urge people to securely fasten their handbags and maintain full control of them throughout their shopping trip."

Anyone with information on the crimes should call the police on 01254 382141 or Crimestoppers, anonymously if desired, on 0800 555111.