Counter and shop workers at local Post Offices are being urged to stay alert following two 'sleight of hand' money thefts near Dorchester.

Dorset Police say two thefts occurred at Cattistock Post Office at around 12.30pm, and in Toller Porcorum Post Office at around 12.45pm, both on Thursday, April 11.

A man entered and requested a large amount of £10 notes be changed for £20 notes. Once this was completed he said he had meant Euros. Within both exchanges, police suspect that sleight of hand was used to remove some notes.

The male is described as aged in his early to mid 20s, lightly tanned, around 5'ft7inches tall and of large build. He has short black hair, is clean shaven and spoke with 'poor broken English.' He was wearing a baseball hat, a black and white patterned shirt , a black sports jacket and dark trousers.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101 quoting crime number 55190054761 for the theft at Cattistock and 55190055034 for the theft at Toller Porcorum.