A HANDBAG containing sentimental family photographs was stolen in North Dorset.

The victim, a woman aged in her 60s, was walking her dog near the Tarrant Rushton airfield at around 5.30pm on Sunday, August 16, when the incident occurred.

Thieves stole the large hessian handbag from underneath a seat in the victim's car after smashing a window to gain entry.

It contained a number of sentimental photographs of family members who had died, as well as a cheque book holder, a purse and a wallet containing bank cards.

Police Community Support Investigator Kate Hann, of Dorset Police, said: “This incident has been extremely upsetting for the victim due to the loss of sentimental, irreplaceable photographs.

“I am continuing to carry out enquiries and would really like to reunite the victim with her stolen items. Therefore, I am appealing to anyone with information to please get in touch.

“As part of my investigation I have obtained an image of a similar handbag and I am particularly keen to hear from anyone who has seen a bag that looks like the one pictured discarded in the local area.”

Anyone with information can contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55200122492. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.