Police today warned shoppers to be on their guard after a series of thefts from supermarket car parks.

Between Saturday, March 29, and Friday, October 10, there have been 15 incidents across the Thames Valley.

Police said there had been incidents in Witney, Wantage, Abingdon, Wallingford, High Wycombe, Newbury, Twyford, Wokingham, and Milton Keynes.

In most cases, elderly women have been approached by between one and three people while putting their shopping away.

They have asked for directions and produced a map asking for them to point out the way. Whilst they are doing this, they steal the woman’s purse. They have then made cash withdrawals or purchased items using the victims’ card.

PC Jennifer Scott said: “Each of the victims has been left very shaken following the incident. I would like to hear from anyone that may have witnessed any of these incidents or who may have seen people acting suspiciously.”

Crime reduction officer, John McNicholas, said “These offenders are using a distraction technique to steal belongings from shoppers in supermarket car parks.

“Whilst the victim is busily loading bags into their boot, the offenders have approached them with a map to ask directions to places such as Dover and Cardiff. The map is then used to conceal the victim’s bag. Whilst the offender keeps them busy studying it, their purse or wallet is removed from beneath the map. It is not until after the offenders have fled that the theft has been discovered.

“These people are very plausible and it seems these victims have been easily duped into helping because the offender has taken advantage of their kind nature. My advice is to keep your purses and wallets concealed from view and be wary and cautious if anybody asks you for directions.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Scott at Reading police station via the 24-hour Police Enquiry Centre on 0845 8 505 505. If you don’t want to talk to police and don’t want to leave your name call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.