A MAN who stole an elderly woman's handbag as she completed a puzzle in Christchurch Library has been jailed.

Gregory Aston Dixon, 58 and of Ted Bates Road, Southampton, was sentenced at South London Magistrates’ Court after admitting theft and three charges of fraud by false representation relating to subsequent use of the victim’s bank cards.

He was sentenced to 14 weeks in prison for the theft and a further six weeks for the fraud offences.

Dixon targeted the victim, who is in her 70s, at around 4.25pm on Thursday, June 21. Her handbag, which contained bank cards, keys, a mobile phone, glasses and cash, had been on the back of her chair.

The defendant then used the cards at the BP service station and Lidl in Somerford Road.

Dorset Police issued a call for information about the incident.

PC Matt Leeding, of Christchurch police, said: “I would like to thank everyone who shared and responded to the appeal, which assisted with bringing Dixon to justice for his crimes.

“This was an opportunistic theft and I would like to remind people to ensure they keep bags and possessions close to them to avoid becoming a victim of thieves such as Dixon."