Police have released an image of a woman they would like to speak to after a handbag was allegedly stolen from a high street department store in Canterbury.

Officers believe the women pictured may be able to assist in their investigation into the reported theft, which is said to have taken place earlier this week in Marks and Spencer in St George’s Street.

It was reported the victim, a woman in her 50s, was shopping in the food hall in the store, when her handbag, which had been placed in a shopping trolley, was stolen just after 6pm on Wednesday.

The bag contained items including a mobile phone, keys, and a purse with cash and cards in.

Anyone with information regarding the theft, or if they know the woman pictured in the image, is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/23009/18.

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers in Kent anonymously on 0800 555111.