WOMEN shoppers are being warned to take extra care after a spate of purse thefts in Banbury.

Five purses were stolen last week and three more thefts have been reported this week.

Most of the incidents happened in the town centre, but shoppers at Morrisons and Sainsbury's have also been targeted.

A man has been arrested and charged in connection with the Morrisons' theft.

Sgt Larry Johnson said some victims, all older women, did not realise the purses had been stolen until they looked for them at a shop checkout.

He said: "I would urge women to keep their purses in a zipped handbag, make sure their pin numbers are not in the same bag, and to not leave bags unattended on pushchairs or shopping trolley."

Some of the victims reported that they were jostled or distracted before discovering their purses were missing.

Sgt Johnson said: "We will be displaying posters in stores along High Street, Bridge Street, Market Place, Calthorpe Street, and Castle Quay. The shops are doing all they can to help us with our enquiries.

"We have also asked shops to call us as a matter of urgency if someone arrives at a till and finds their purse or wallet missing."

The man suspected of the Sainsbury's theft is described as black, 5ft 11in tall, shaven head, wearing a denim jacket and jeans and black trainers.

Anyone with information can call Sgt Johnson 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Information can also be given at any police station.