A shopper is warning people to be on their guard after her purse containing £300 was stolen from underneath her nose.

Childminder Carol Ainsworth, of Cypress Gardens, Bicester, was in Shaw Trust charity shop, in Sheep Street, with two children.

Her purse was tucked inside the hood of the pushchair while she looked at books with the children.

The 29-year-old said: "All I did was bend down to pick up books and show it to the children. I was right next to the buggy. There were three people in the shop at the time and they didn't see anything."

The wallet contained £300 -- £100 she had just withdrawn from the bank, and £200 she was looking after to pay for the church for her brother's wedding in five weeks' time.

Police spokesman Victoria Bartlett said: "I'd urge people to be on their guard and to be aware of these crimes.

"If possible, try and split your cards and cash in pockets so that you are not carrying all your valuables in your handbag. If you can, keep your handbag concealed."

Anyone who can help should call officers via the police inquiry centre on 08458 505505 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.