There have been six thefts in St Albans in the past week, and police are urging shoppers to be vigilant during the Christmas period. 

Items including purses, bank cards, jewellery and mobile phones have been stolen from shoppers’ pockets or handbags while at supermarkets or in the high street.

The thefts took place between November 10 and 14 in Victoria Street, Morrisons’ car park in Hatfield Road, Waitrose, Marks and Spencer and in Canberra Close. 

Methods include:

1. Distracting shoppers with a map and asking for directions while removing items from handbags and pockets, particularly near cash machines.

2. Asking for help or directions and then placing worthless items of jewellery around victims’ necks as a ‘thank you’ while removing more expensive jewellery items they are wearing.

3. Targeting bags which have been left unattended for short periods of time in supermarket shopping trolleys and stealing items from within.

PC Ben Kirby from the St Albans Safer Neighbourhood Team said: "With the busy Christmas shopping period upon us, it’s easy to be distracted and less aware of those around you, making this an ideal time for opportunist thieves to strike.

"I would like to reassure shoppers that we are doing all we can to catch those who commit these crimes and would urge people to be extra vigilant by following our simple advice to help keep their belongings safe when out and about.

"I would also urge anyone who sees any suspicious activity to please contact us immediately."

Anyone with information about the thefts is asked to contact PC Kirby via the Hertfordshire Constabulary non-emergency number 101.