Police have warned shoppers to beware of people asking as directions.

Officers issued the message after an 80-year-old woman, from Tunbridge Wells, was conned out of more than £500 when she was distracted outside a shop in Linden Park Road.

The victim placed her shopping and purse in the boot of her car and when she went to return her trolley, she was approached by a seemingly foreign woman with a London Underground map, who asked her for directions.

It's thought an accomplice removed the elderly woman’s bank card from her purse in the car while she was distracted.

The card was then used to buy electronic items at another store.

DI Simon Wilshaw, from the community safety unit at Tunbridge Wells, said: “Unfortunately this crime is not unique or new. There have been similar cases elsewhere in recent times although I’m happy to say that in some previous cases in Kent, culprits have been found and brought to justice.

“But we still urge all shoppers to be on their guard against this sort of behaviour. Be wary of who might be watching you, especially at the checkouts, and always cover your PIN when you enter it into a cash machine or into a chip and PIN machine at the tills.

“Once outside, don’t be distracted, think what you’re doing and if you have to leave your car, lock your shopping and your valuables out of sight. Better still, take any valuables such as a handbag with you.”

If you see anyone suspicious, or are approached by someone who you suspect may not be genuine, do not engage them in conversation but instead call 101 – or 999 if a crime is in progress - with as many details about the suspect’s appearance and any vehicles they may be using.