CCTV appeal after purse theft in Newton-le-Willows

We have issued CCTV images of two men who may have information to assist enquiries into the theft of a purse from an elderly woman as she shopped in Newton-le-Willows.

At around 12.10pm on Friday 7^th October, we received a report that a purse belonging to an 87-year-old woman had been taken from her bag in Tesco, on Earle Street.

It was reported that a man approached the woman and distracted her by asking about some items in the shop. Another man then went into her bag and took her purse containing a quantity of cash.

Since the incident, officers have carried out an extensive investigation and continue to appeal for information.

Detective Inspector James Rotheram said: “We are very keen to speak to the two men pictured, as we believe they could have vital information about this incident that would help our enquiries.

“This was a despicable offence targeting an elderly woman in her local supermarket, somewhere she needed to go to buy essentials and where she should feel safe.

“We continue to ask the community to take sensible precautions when they are out and about - take extra care to zip handbags, purses and pockets and split up cash in different parts of your handbag or clothing."

If you recognise the men or have any information on this incident, please contact @MerPolCC, 101 quoting reference 22000740744. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information-online/