THIEVES used a woman’s bank cards to take money from her bank accounts while she was shopping on Bromsgrove high street.

The woman noticed her purse was missing on Friday, February 5 while at a market stall in Bromsgrove town centre.

The purse is thought to have been taken between 11.15 and 11.39am.

West Mercia Police believe a group of thieves were following the woman through the High Street.

The police have issued the following tips to prevent other Bromsgrove residents from becoming a victim of a similar crime:

  • Take care when withdrawing money from ATM machines and be aware of who is around you.
  • Put your purse at the bottom of your bag and keep your bag closed. Never leave it on display.
  • Do not carry large amounts of cash.
  • Never write down your PIN or keep it with you.