Beware phone pickpockets

Pickpockets have been spotted in the Thames Valley and police are warning people to be on their guard.

The light-fingered thieves are targeting people who put their mobile phone into the back pocket of their trousers.

Police say that pickpockets generally work in teams, sometimes distracting their victim while an accomplice removes items and then blends into a crowd.

Thefts can take just seconds to carry out.

Risks can also be minimised by not hanging items, such as bags, on the back of a chair or pushchair.

Belongings on the floor should not be placed out of sight.

Those carrying large quantities of cash could carry it in a money belt, while travellers should keep a photocopy of airline tickets, passports, credit cards and other documents that could be impossible or difficult to replace if stolen.

Thames Valley Police also offers purse-dipping bells which can be attached to wallets and purses.

These are usually available when officers hold Have Your Say events and from front counters of police stations.