TWO teenage girls are believed to have stolen almost £200 after a purse snatch in Pershore and a handbag snatch in Evesham.

Police believe the two incidents, which both happened on Tuesday are linked and have appealed for more information.

The first incident took place in Dillons in High Street, Pershore, at about 10.14am, when two women were seen to snatch a purse from a woman, which contained £50.

Later that morning, an elderly lady was pushing a shopping trolley along Bridge Street, Evesham, when two girls snatched her handbag.

The bag was later discovered in Etam, in Bridge Street, but the £145 cash inside it had been stolen.

Police have issued descriptions of the two girls they wish to trace.

The first girl is of Asian appearance, 5ft 8ins tall and of slim build with short dark hair.

She was wearing a cream polo jumper and a denim type jacket.

The second girl has olive skin, is 5ft 6ins tall, and of slim build with light coloured hair tied back in a ponytail.

She was also wearing a denim-type jacket.

Both girls are believed to be in their late teens and spoke with foreign accents.

Anyone with information about the crimes should contact PC Martyn Gibbs at Evesham police on 01905 723888, quoting c/634522.