POLICE are urging people to be vigilant after two thieves stole a handbag off a 90-year-old pensioner after distracting her.

The incident took place in Wilton Shopping Village yesterday at 2pm when the pensioner was approached by a man who asked for directions.

It was during this time when a second man came up behind her and stole her handbag, which contained cash, bank cards, cheque book, gift vouchers, bus pass, a brain teaser book and a Swarovski pen.

The men left the scene in a vehicle, believed to be a Nissan Micra, and headed off towards the A36.

The first man is described as white, 6ft tall, of slim build, with fair coloured short hair. He was wearing a black tracksuit.

The second man is described as having dark skin and a lot of hair.

PC Tracey Holloway said: “This incident has left the victim very upset. Although upset about the loss of house keys and bank cards which is both very inconvenient and distressing, she is most upset about the loss of the other more sentimental items in her bag, which she received as gifts for her 90th birthday.

“This scam – whereby offenders are approaching victims and asking for directions, before stealing handbags or other personal property while they are distracted – seems to be on the rise, and we believe that these people may be operating in the Wiltshire area. However, this is thought to be the only incident in the Salisbury and Wilton area.

"We would urge members of the public to be extra vigilant when out and about, particularly while shopping and carrying personal items such as purses and house keys.

"Ensure you always keep purses and wallets out of sight when possible, never keep your PIN with your credit or debt cards and always try to be aware of what and who is around you - avoid putting yourself in potentially dangerous situations.

"If you see anything suspicious, please call 101, or 999 in an emergency."

If anybody has any information on this incident, call PC Holloway on 101. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.