A PURSE containing £145 was snatched from an elderly woman's shopping trolley by two teenage girls in Evesham.

The thieves struck as the woman was walking along Bridge Street and the purse was later found dumped without the cash.

A second purse, containing £50, was snatched from a woman in Dillons Newsagent, High Street, Pershore, by two girls.

Police believe the incidents may be linked.

In the first incident, one girl is described as between 16 and 18-years-old, Asian, about 5ft 4in tall, wearing a sweater, jeans or trousers and possibly a green scarf.

The second girl is described as having olive skin, between 16 and 18-years-old, with blond hair in a ponytail, wearing a light-coloured top and light-coloured trousers or cords.

In the second incident, the first girl is described as Asian in appearance 5ft 8in tall, of slim build, with short dark hair, wearing a cream polo jumper and a denim-type jacket.

The second girl is described as having olive skin, 5ft 6in tall, of slim build with lightened hair tied back on a ponytail wearing a denim-type jacket.

They were both in their late teens and both spoke with foreign accents.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Martyn Gibbs on 01905 73888, quoting reference c/634522.