Three women recovering from breast cancer targeted by thieves

They left their handbags in a car boot after being advised not to carry things too far after surgery.

But when they returned to the vehicle they discovered the rear window had been smashed and their bags stolen.

Police who attended the scene told them they believe visitors to beauty spots in the area are being targeted by gangs of thieves.

Charlene Parrack, 37, from Christchurch Road, Bournemouth was with friends Lucy Jackson and Kerrie Hyde when the thieves struck between 11.30am and 1.15pm on Wednesday October 10.

They had parked in a Forestry Commission car park near the Royal Oak pub at Fritham to go for a walk.

Charlene told the Daily Echo: "We are all in recovery after taking part in a breast cancer trial at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

"Taking gentle exercise is recommended but it is not good to carry bags so we left two handbags in the car.

"It's horrible to think that someone could have been watching us put the bags in the boot and waiting for us to leave. The bags were out of sight.

"We have been through enough without things like this happening. It was a beautiful day and now I've been left with all the hassle of trying to sort out my car, bank cards and keys."

One of the bags was a white Radley handbag which contained a coin purse and keys. The other was a tan and white Animal bag containing cards, keys, a wallet and driving licence.

A spokesman for Hampshire Police issued some advice to motorists intending to park at beauty spots.

He said: "Never leave valuable possessions such as handbags, laptops, phones or sat navs on show inside your car. Even items of little value, such as shopping bags and clothing, may tempt a thief.

"Don’t hide your valuables in the boot. Someone may be watching. Always lock your car, wind up the windows and close the sunroof, even if you’re only leaving it for a few minutes.

"Double check it’s locked. It only takes a few seconds for your valuables to be stolen from an unlocked car."