'VULNERABLE elderly women' across Wokingham have been targeted by criminals in a spate of distraction thefts.

In just eight days five victims had their handbag or purse stolen in the town.

On Thursday, February 18, an 82-year-old's handbag was stolen whilst she was shopping in the Rectory Road Waitrose. A balding man with brown eyes wearing a beige anorak jacket is thought to have stolen the bag between 11.20am and 12.45pm.

A 68-year-old's mobile phone and purse was stolen from the supermarket's car park between 3.20pm and 3.45pm on Tuesday, February 23.

The next week a thief stole a purse from a 65-year-old's handbag in the Cancer Research shop on Jocks Lane. The criminal struck between 1.30pm and 2pm on Thursday, February 25.

Later that day an 81-year-old's purse was stolen outside the Rectory Road Waitrose. At around 3pm two men watched the woman enter her pin at the checkout and another man helped her load her shopping into a taxi. She later found her purse had been stolen.

The next day a 83-year-old's handbag was stolen from M&Co in Market Place. The thief is thought to be between 35 and 40 years old. He is approximately 5ft 9ins tall with short hair and a small beard. He was wearing a dark bomber jacket.

The crimes aren't being linked at this stage.

Investigating officer, Police Community Support Officer Natalie White based at Wokingham police station, said: "These appalling crimes have all targeted vulnerable, elderly women in our community.

"Whilst we are not linking them at present, we would like to reassure residents that we are thoroughly investigating each offence and are therefore keen to speak to anyone who may be able to assist us with our investigation.

"In the meantime, we would urge members of the community to remain vigilant at all times and share our crime prevention advice with any vulnerable friends or relatives.

"Anyone with any information should contact me via the 24-hour Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101."

Police are warning people to make sure their PIN number is kept secret. Keep valuables secure in a zipped pocket or bag, report stolen cards as soon as possible and install a tracking app on smart phones.