A pregnant woman was left devastated after her handbag -- containing baby scan photographs -- was stolen from her car in Minster Lovell.

Lisa Ridway, 35, who is six-and-a-half months pregnant, had parked her gold Honda Civic Coupe outside the Mill and Old Swan pub on Sunday, December 12, while she went shopping.

But when she returned at about 1.30pm, the back windscreen of her car had been smashed and her brown suede satchel bag was missing from the boot.

Mrs Ridway, of Chorley, Lancashire, said: "I just really need the bag back even if it is just the photos.

"They are irreplaceable."

The satchel also contained some black and white wedding photographs and a mobile phone.

Vicky Evans, west Oxfordshire police spokesman, said: "We are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

She added: "We advise people, especially at this time of year, not to keep anything valuable in their cars as it only takes a minute to smash and grab."

Anyone with information should call the police inquiry centre on 08458 505505, or the free, anonymous Crimestoppers number, 0800 555111.

At this time each year a very small number of people become victims of crime and have their festive period ruined.

Police have issued the following crime prevention advice to shoppers:

Think about where you park

Try to pick a car park where you do not pay for parking until you return to your vehicle. These deter thieves, as even if they successfully get into and start your car they will be unable to leave the car park without a ticket

If you use a multi-storey car park, make sure that it is well lit

Do not leave attractive items on display. Even an empty carrier bag or old coat can hold a thief's interest

If you need to go back to your car to leave shopping, be aware of who is around

Put the shopping in the boot out of sight

Remember, while you are shopping so are opportunist thieves