Information on Loughborough

Purse thieves not welcome in Loughborough

Posted on 02/10/2008

Police in Loughborough are warning shoppers to be on their guard against purse-thieves following an increase of thefts in the town.

Crime analysis shows that in the last 30 days there have been 32 reports of purse thefts across the Loughborough local policing area - 20 of them have occurred in the town centre.

The thieves are known to target the elderly and mothers who leaving bags, prams or pushchairs unattended.

Officers from the town centre beat team will be running a crime prevention campaign which involves giving shoppers small bells to attach to their purse, handbag or shopping bag in an attempt to deter thieves.  The bells will alert shoppers if their purse or bag is moved.  Officers will also be giving talks to visitors at community centres, such as John Storer House, and will be giving away alarms that are activated if a purse is pulled out of a bag. 

Officers will also be on patrol in the town looking for suspects and will be working closely with the town's CCTV operators and Crime out of Loughborough (COOL) members.

Sergeant Ian Stone, the town centre Sergeant said: "In the last month, two thirds of the purse thefts have happened in the town centre.  Many of them have been on market day when the town is busier than usual but they have occurred on other days too.  We are keen to make sure that shoppers enjoy their shopping without the misery of having their purse stolen. The bells are also a warning to purse-snatchers not to come to Loughborough."

"Thieves often target the elderly and will visit charity shops where they know elderly people may go to shop.  They also target mothers who are pushing their children in buggies and who may have their handbags draped over the handles.  Mums and dads may also leave their bags in the buggies as they look at items in windows or in the shops.  The bells are a really simple idea. They work by making people aware of their bag or purse when they are out in town and they act as a reminder to all of us to keep our purses and wallets out of the sight in order to prevent the opportunist thief from taking advantage."

To reduce the risk of having your purse stolen the police advise people to:

  • Never leave a handbag or purse unattended and be aware of your surroundings
  • Keep your handbag firmly closed or on your person at all times
  • Wear shoulder bags with the opening against your body
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
  • Only keep items in your bag that are needed
  • Keep your cash card separate from your chequebook and never leave your PIN details in your bag

Issued on 02/10/08 at 10:52