A purse has been stolen at the Next store in Hitchin, with the cards later used at a nearby shop.

The incident occurred at around 3.10pm on Wednesday, July 19, in Bancroft.

It is reported that a leather purse, described as bright green with a zip, was taken from a bag, and was later used to pay for items at Blakes in Ickleford Road.

"Our enquiries are continuing, and we are appealing for anyone with information to please get in touch," said PCSO Cynthia Combe, from the Hitchin Safer Neighbourhood Team.

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"We are releasing these images as we believe the two people pictured may have been in the area at the time and could assist with our enquiries.

"Is this you, or do you recognise these people? Please email me at cynthia.combe@herts.police.uk with any information."

You can report information online at herts.police.uk/report, via online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact, or by calling the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 41/58253/23.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.