PRICELESS mementos of an elderly woman’s dead son went missing when her handbag was stolen.

The items included a kangaroo skin purse, Australian coins (similar to a 50p piece) and business cards belonging to the son of the 85-year-old woman whose handbag was taken from the reception area of Maidstone Hospital.

The pensioner had kept the items in her bag following the death of her son a number of years ago. They were of great sentimental value.

Also inside the bag was a small amount of cash, a cheque book and cards. The theft happened on Wednesday, January 26, between 4.15pm and 4.30pm.

Anyone with information about the incident or anyone who may have found the stolen items, is asked to contact police on 01622 608189 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.