An elderly woman had money stolen from her bank account after her purse was reportedly swiped in a supermarket.

The lady in her 80s reported her purse stolen when she was shopping at Waitrose supermarket in Prospect Road in Hythe.

It is understood her brown purse was taken from her bag and contained cash and cards along with her PIN and sentimental photos.

This led to a further theft of cash from her bank account moments later from a cash point in the High Street.

The incident happened on Wednesday, May 22, just before midday.

PC Justine Perez said: "We want to take this opportunity to remind people when shopping to keep your bags zipped up and within your sight.

"Never leave them unattended as it can only take a moment for items to be stolen while you are distracted in a store.

"Don't carry large amounts of cash with you when shopping and make sure your purse, mobile phones and other valuables are hidden from view in the bottom of your bag or a zipped pocket."

Anyone who witnessed the theft or has information is asked to call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting reference 46/98932/19, or the anonymous Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555111.

Read more: All the latest news from Hythe.