Warning after handbag stolen

Sometime between 5.50pm and 6.40pm on Saturday, September 4, the front passenger window of a silver Suzuki Alto car was smashed and a handbag, containing cash, taken. The handbag is black with long shoulder straps and medium in size.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident or has information in relation to it to contact them on 0845 600 8000. Information about crime can also be passed anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Police are also urging motorists not to leave valuables in their cars.

A police spokesperson explained: "Leaving valuables, such as your handbag, wallet, CD player, laptop or phone on view in your vehicle is like an open invitation to opportunist thieves.

"If they see something valuable on view they will do their best to get it. You only have to leave your vehicle for a short time for a thief to act.

"By taking simple precautions such as locking valuable items in the boot of your car, or removing the face plate from your in-car stereo system you can help ensure that your valuables will be kept safe. Taking just a few moments can significantly improve your chances of not becoming a victim of this type of crime. Improved car security features such as alarms, immobilisers and tracking devices can also help protect your vehicle and your valuables.

“As it only takes a matter of seconds to break into a car, we would also urge local residents to promptly report all suspicious activity they notice near vehicles , or car alarms that have been activated, as this will help to deter and help us to detect those involved in this type of crime.”