DARENT Valley Hospital has stepped up security after a woman visiting a cancer patient had her purse stolen.

The theft took place the weekend before Christmas.

The victim, who did not want to be identified, and the patient were approached by a smartly dressed woman who claimed to work for social services.

The woman interviewed the patient, apparently assessing their needs for when they left hospital.

After the visit the victim went to pay for her parking ticket when she discovered her purse had been stolen.

Wards are now being locked at weekends and visitors can only gain entry by phone.

On Saturdays and Sundays visitors must buzz through to nurses, identify themselves and give the reason for their visit.

A Darent Valley Hospital spokesman said: “We have told the staff on the wards to be extra vigilant and would ask any visitors to report anything suspicious to the nurses or any other hospital staff.”

n Have you been approached by a suspicious character while visiting the hospital?

Write to us at Gravesend Messenger, 7 High Street, Gravesend, Kent, DA11 0BQ.

Alternatively email gravesendmessenger@thekmgroup.co.uk