THIEVES targeted elderly people shopping in a charity store in Devizes on Wednesday afternoon and stole their purses.

Police are hunting for those responsible for striking at the British Heart Foundation shop in The Brittox between 2.40pm and 3.15pm.

One of the victim's had a purse taken from the storage compartment of a three wheeled walking aid.

PC Teresa Herbert said: "We are eager to hear from anyone witness to any suspicious activity in the vicinity of and at The British Heart Foundation shop during this time. "

The following advice was given to people about keeping their valuable safe.

Whilst the chances of getting your handbag or contents stolen are low, there are measures you can take to reduce this risk;

1. Never leave your bags unattended, particularly on shopping trolleys.

2. Be aware of people around you at all times.

3. Carry your bag close to you with the clasp facing inwards. keep it zipped up, ensure your wallet or purse cannot be seen and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

4. Spread your possessions about - i.e keep mobile phone separate to your keys and credit cards.

5. Never carry pin numbers with any cards.