POLICE are warning members of the public visiting Maidstone town centre to keep their handbags secure following a spate of recent thefts.

Officers are currently investigating around 20 incidents in the last few weeks where items have been stolen from victims’ bags as they have walked around the area.

Gianna Pollero, spokeswoman for Maidstone and Malling Police, said: "Research has shown that the victims are often women aged over 60 who are barged into. They later notice that their purse has been stolen from their handbag."

Police believe there is more than one group of offenders carrying out the thefts and are asking people to be vigilant, particularly bearing in mind the time of year and the large numbers of people in the town centre area.

They advise:

* Always zip or button up your bag so it’s not easy for someone to put their hand inside.

* Keep hold of it firmly.

* If you put your bag down, on the floor of a shop, or on top of a pushchair or trolley, make sure you do not leave it unattended. Keep an eye on it all the time.

* Also, don’t leave it hooked over the back of your chair where you can’t see it properly, if you are in a bar or restaurant.

* If you work in the town centre and leave your handbag in a staff area, ensure this area is secure so no one, other than staff members, can gain access to your personal property.

* If you have zip pockets inside the bag, keep valuables inside them and keep them closed.

Anyone with information about crimes of this nature is asked to contact DC Darren Nurse at Maidstone and Malling Police on 01622 604257, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 – this call is free and confidential.