POLICE officers in Dorchester are issuing CCTV images of a woman they would like to speak to following the theft of a purse and subsequent fraud.

The incident happened at around midday on Saturday, December 15 on South Street.

The victim, a local woman aged in her 70s, was out shopping when her purse was stolen from her handbag.

Her bank cards were then used to buy goods and withdraw cash in the town totalling almost £1,500.

Police Constable Anthony Elswood, of Dorchester police, said: "We are determined to identify the person responsible and I am now able to issue CCTV images of a woman we would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

"If you can identify this woman please contact Dorset Police.

“I would also urge residents to remain alert to potential purse thieves and to keep their bags secure at all times."

For more crime prevention advice visit www.dorset.police.uk/help-advice-crime-prevention/.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55180200951.

Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.