Women aged 89 and 90 were targeted by pickpockets in the middle of St Albans.

The first theft took place in Poundworld in St Peter’s Street on Wednesday, March 14, at around 11.30am.

An 89-year-old woman had her bankcards stolen.

The second theft took place in Tesco Metro, also in St Peter’s Street, on the same day, between 12pm and 12.15pm.

This time, a 90-year-old woman had her handbag stolen.

Police officers from the Safer Neighbourhood Team were in the town on Wednesday to carry out their daily patrols.

Their patrols will include making CCTV enquiries in relation to these crimes.

Shoppers are reminded to be vigilant and if possible, to have the strap on your bag diagonally across yourself so that you have it close to you at all times.

When in shops, keep your bag in sight. It takes mere moments to become distracted enough for someone to take your purse or wallet without you noticing.

Anyone who saw anything suspicious or has any other information should contact Herts police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference F1/18/1183 for the Poundworld incident and F1/18/1177 for the Tesco Metro incident.