Police have released an image of a woman they would like to speak to after a purse was stolen in Smallford, near St Albans, and the thief spent £50 in Hatfield.

Herts Advertiser: Police would like to speak to this woman in connection with a purse theft in Smallford. Picture: Herts PolicePolice would like to speak to this woman in connection with a purse theft in Smallford. Picture: Herts Police (Image: Archant)

The victim, a woman in her 70s, was shopping at Notcutts Garden Centre on Hatfield Road at 11.10am on Monday, August 27, when her purse was snatched from her handbag.

Thirty minutes later, her debit card was used to make several contactless payments at a newsagents in The Common, Hatfield, totally £50.

PC James McAlister, who is investigating, said: “I would like to speak to the woman pictured as I believe she will have information that could assist with my investigation.

“If you recognise her, please contact me by email at james.mcalister@herts.pnn.police.uk or via the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 41/32144/18. You can also report information online at https://www.herts.police.uk/Report.”