A THIEF stole a woman’s purse and withdrew nearly £300 in cash after watching her type in her pin number at a cashpoint in Wimborne.

Police are warning people to be vigilant when using their bank cards following the theft.

The victim, a woman aged in her 70s, had her purse stolen from her bag while she was in Seasalt in The Square at around 1.50pm on Wednesday, June 26.

One of her bank cards was subsequently used to withdraw £280 at a cashpoint at Waitrose a short time later.

The thief then tried to use the card for a transaction of £1,049 at an Argos store in the Bournemouth area around an hour afterwards. This attempt was unsuccessful.

It is believed the thief stood behind the victim as she used a cashpoint in Wimborne High Street and followed her for around ten minutes before stealing the purse in Seasalt.

Police have released CCTV images of a suspect they need help identifying.

Police Community Support Investigator Kate Hann, of Dorset Police, said: “I would also urge shoppers to remain vigilant to avoid becoming victims of this type of offence. Always make sure your PIN is covered when using a cash machine or paying for items.

“Make sure your bag is kept close and secured at all times and there are also items such as purse bells that can make it harder for thieves to steal items from your bag. For more crime prevention advice visit www.dorset.police.uk/help-advice-crime-prevention/.”