Forty four purses have been snatched in Maidstone in the past four weeks.

The rise has prompted police to step up a campaign urging shoppers to keep their bags safe.

Uniformed officers will be patrolling hot spot areas to deter thieves and offer crime prevention advice and purse chains to shoppers.

Of the 44 thefts, 36 have been from women aged between 56 and 86.

Urban Neighbourhood Inspector Adam Jones said: “We want to appeal to both shoppers themselves and those with elderly relatives, who may be vulnerable.

"Thieves are targeting mums with pushchairs and also elderly females, particularly in shoe and clothing stores, when bags are likely to be left unattended.

"If you have an elderly relative who shops in the town centre, you can make sure they are safer by following simple crime prevention rules such as ensuring handbags are worn across the front of the body and are zipped and fastened at all times.

"Never leave a bag either on a trolley or a pram as it only takes a second for a thief to strike."

Free purse chains are available from Maidstone Police Station in Palace Avenue and can also be bought from any shoe repair shop or hardware store.

In addition to the extra policing, advice leaflets are being distributed in the town centre and messages are going up on the electronic boards in Week Street and Lockmeadow warning shoppers to keep their valuables safe.

Seven people have now been arrested in connection with these thefts.

Are you a victim of the purse-snatchers? Contact Helen Wagstaff on 01622 695666 or email messengernews@thekmgroup.co.uk