An elderly woman who had her handbag stolen by thieves was met with kindness by supermarket staff.

Police are investigating the incident which took place in Iceland in Herne Bay at about 1pm yesterday.

Staff from the store reportedly chased the culprits while other members comforted the woman.

They put her shopping through the checkout for free, made her tea and waited with her until a family member arrived.

In this season of goodwill, workers from the store are also putting together a Christmas hamper for the victim.

Anyone can contribute by dropping items into the store in Mortimer Street.

A plea was put out on Herne Bay Chatter on Facebook. It said: “As a store we have decided already to make a hamper for the lady, and we are going to deliver that too her as soon as it is complete. Anyone who wants to participate in donating anything towards the hamper is more than welcome, pop into Iceland and we can sort that out for you.”

A spokesman said: “Kent Police is investigating after a woman’s handbag was reported stolen while she was shopping in Herne Bay on Saturday, December 2.

“The black shoulder bag was reportedly taken from the elderly victim just before 1pm while she was in a shop in Mortimer Street."

Anyone with information about the theft is asked to phone Kent Police on 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting reference number 02-0503.