Police are urging shoppers in Northallerton to be vigilant after two purse thefts were reported at the weekend.
Both offences are believed to have occurred on the High Street between 1.30pm and 2.30pm on Saturday 22 October 2011.
An elderly lady from Barnard Castle, had her purse taken from her bag while in the Cancer Research charity shop and a woman from Leyburn lost bank cards and cash when her purse was stolen while she was in Barkers or Boyes.
Police are urging people to take advantage of the free purse chains that are available from Northallerton Police Station, to ensure that they are protected from thieves when out shopping.
PC Quita Passmore, of Northallerton Safer Neighbourhood Team, said:
It is important that residents and visitors to Northallerton are aware that there have been a couple of purse thefts reported recently.
I urge people to be on their guard when out and about. Keep your bag closed and close to your body and be aware of who is around you at all times.
There are free purse chains available at Northallerton Police Station which can be used to attach your purse to your bag, making it very difficult for thieves to remove it.
Officers are also appealing to anyone who witnessed the purses being taken, or saw any suspicious behaviour in Northallerton High Street on Saturday to get in touch with information.
PC Passmore said:
Northallerton will have been very busy on Saturday afternoon, therefore it is possible that someone may have seen the thefts occur.
If you have any information that can help the police find those responsible, please get in touch.
Anyone who can help the police with their enquiries is urged to contact PC Quita Passmore, of Northallerton Safer Neighbourhood Team, on 0845 60 60 24 7.
Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
For more advice about securing against purse thefts, visit the North Yorkshire Police website www.northyorkshire.police.uk/pursethefts
