Shoppers Targeted by Thieves

Shoppers are being warned to keep their valuables safe after a number of purse and handbag thefts.

Police say a gang of men and women from outside Kettering have moved into the town and are targeting vulnerable shoppers.

There has been 44 handbags or purse thefts from shops in and around Kettering town centre since the start of the year. Six were reported to the police on Tuesday 5th April and one on Wednesday 6th April.

Sgt Kevin Byrne of the community action team, said "A number of victims have been targeted after having been to the bank or post office.

"We have arrested and charged a number of local people with theft but believe a more organised team who are not local are working in the town."

Many of the victims have been elderly women who have had their purse stolen from their handbags or trolleys. Other offences have taken place in supermarkets, charity and card shops. Most of the thefts have taken place between midday and 2pm.