PICKPOCKETS have been targeting elderly and vulnerable women in Didcot town centre.

In the latest spate three women - one in her 60s and two in their 80s - had purses stolen whilst out shopping.

Thieves even telephoned one victim to get PIN numbers and security details by pretending to be bank officials.

Police say thefts from handbags have been on the increase since September.

On Wednesday November 8, three purses were stolen, two in shops in the Orchard Centre and one on Broadway, between 10.30am and 11.30am.

CCTV footage has been handed to investigating officers.

Crime reduction officer Mark Bradfield said last week's thefts fitted the pattern of previous incidents over the past three months.

He said thefts, particularly from elderly women, were now taking place on a regular basis in Didcot town centre -with the total number of thefts into double figures.

But he added shoppers could take precautionary measures to deter thieves.

Mr Bradfield said: "If you can carry your purse on your person rather than in a handbag that is better because you are more likely to feel someone trying to remove it."

"If you do keep it in your handbag, keep the bag closed and in front of you."

Mr Bradfield said that anyone who discovered their purse has been stolen should cancel credit and debit cards immediately and contact police.

He added: "If anyone phones and asks for PIN numbers or security details do not give them out. Your bank bank will already have that information."