POLICE are warning people to be vigilant against distraction thefts after an 80-year-old had her purse stolen in Stratford.
The pensioner was approached by a woman in Swans Nest Lane Car Park just before 3pm on Wednesday (July 20).
The woman was holding a map and asked for directions but as the elderly lady was helping her purse was removed from her handbag.
The thief has been described as an East Asian woman in her 30s, of slim build, wearing a blue summer dress and a straw hat.
Following the incident, officers are reminding people to keep their valuables secure at all times when in public.
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
