We have recently had an increase of incidents where ladies have had their handbags stolen from baskets or trolleys whilst going about doing their regular shop.

Please remember just a few basic rules to make sure you don't become the next victim:

Always make sure your handbag is securely fastened – do not leave your purse or other valuables on show.

Always have hold of your handbag.

If possible use a bag with a longer handle to fit over your shoulder.
If you have to put it in the front of your trolley, wrap the strap around your wrist whilst holding the trolley.

Always make sure you have sight of your bag.

Do not leave it in the trolley unattended whilst you go over to look at something – not even for a moment.

It honestly takes seconds for either your bag or contents to be taken, and you may not even notice until you get to the till - and by then it is too late.

They could have not only taken your money, bank cards or phone, but your car keys or even your house keys.

You might think this may never happen to you, but unfortunately there are a small number of people out there who make a living from this kind of theft and because of this they are good at it.

PCSO 4492 Donna Shaw
0845 123 33 33
donna.shaw.4492@derbyshire.pnn.police.uk.

Donna Shaw, PCSO 4492, is on 0845 1233333 or people can give information anonymously on 0800 555 111.