Hunt for thief as heroes retrieve handbag

Jul 18 2008 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Daily Post

A THIEF who attempted to steal a pensioner’s handbag was foiled after two members of the public chased him.

Police in Wirral are now appealing for witnesses, following the theft at Oliver Street car park, in Birkenhead. It happened at around 4.30pm while a 70-year-old woman was sitting in her car.

A man opened her passenger door and stole her bag and jacket before then riding off on his bicycle.

According to Merseyside Police: “After witnessing the incident, two members of the public chased the man and managed to recover the handbag with all of its contents, and return it to the lady.”

The man is described as being 40 - 45 years old, 5ft 7ins tall, thin with long grey hair.

Neighbourhood Inspector Mick Blease said: “This is not a regular crime we come across, but I would encourage the public to remain vigilant.”