A GANG of suspected purse thieves who have been targeting shoppers in Worcester have been arrested.

Road police OPU Worcestershire pulled over a silver Vauxhall Zafira after a purse was stolen in the city yesterday (Saturday).

They arrested a gang they believe are responsible for a number of similar thefts in the city centre.

OPU Worcestershire said: "B unit have three in custody following a theft of a purse in Worcester this morning.

"Believed to be wanted for historic thefts of the same nature."

West Mercia Police regularly hand out small bells to vulnerable shoppers to attach to purses to help stop thieves.