A thief snatched a sum of money from a man's back pocket on a busy street and fled, prompting a police warning.

The victim, a man in his 60s, was targeted in Ladywell, Dover.

After making a cash withdrawal in Market Square, the thief approached the victim from behind near the public toilets.

They grabbed the money and ran off.

Dover sergeant Ben Norbury warned residents of the crime and gave advice on how to protect themselves.

He said: "Thankfully, offences like these are not common but they are a reminder that you can never be too careful when out and about.

"There are lots of ways in which people can avoid becoming victim to opportunist thieves.

"Handbags should always be zipped up or fastened shut and kept to the front of you where they can be seen.

"Don’t keep wallets in back pockets and never leave handbags unattended on top of prams, shopping trolleys, wheelchairs or mobility scooters."

He added using purse chains or lanyards also deter opportunist thieves.

"It only takes a second for purses or wallets to be taken," he added.

The theft happened between 4.30pm and 5.15pm on Sunday.

Anyone with information about the theft should contact 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting reference number ZY/34938/17.