How to avoid having your purse swiped in shopping crowds

Warwickshire Police is reminding people to be extra cautious while out in streets and shopping centres that are busier than usual.

Advice includes avoiding withdrawing more cash than is needed, storing it securely before moving away from the cash point and not keeping wallets and purses in back pockets or the outside pockets of coats.

Care should be taken to close purses and bags when buying items at the shop counter and to be extra aware of people in the surrounding area when in crowds.

Officers are also urging people to be aware of others attempting to distract them as they load the car or just after they have paid for items, as they could be eyeing up valuables and wallets as they speak.

It may even be worth attaching a bell or charm that tinkles with movement to wallets and purses so that a noise is made if someone attempts to steal it.