FOUR elderly shoppers in St Albans had their purses stolen from their handbags in the space of two hours last Saturday lunchtime.

A 79-year-old woman had her purse stolen from her handbag in Woolworth's in St Peter's Street between 11.25am and 11.35am after a woman came up to her and asked her about some of the items on the shelf. When she walked away, the pensioner realised her purse had gone.

The thief was described as Asian, aged 23, 5ft 9ins tall, of slim build with short or tied back mousy hair. She was quiet and well spoken and wearing a grey jumper.

A 78-year-old woman was browsing in Barnardo's in Chequer Street between 11.30am and noon, when £40 was taken from her handbag and a 61-year-old woman, also shopping in Barnardo's, had her purse stolen from her handbag between 12.30pm and 1pm.

Later a 78-year-old woman was shopping in the QS clothing store in St Peter's Street between 1.15pm and 1.30pm when she was approached by a woman who asked her about shoe sizes.

Police believe a second woman standing behind her took her purse containing £120 from her handbag.

The women were described as in their late teens to early 20's and smartly dressed.