Last updated 12:00, Tuesday, 03 June 2008

DETECTIVES in South Lakeland are warning tourists to be on their guard after a spate of thefts.

THEFT WARNING: Bowness is regularly thronged with tourists, but police fear they may be being targeted by bag snatchers

In the past two weeks three handbags have been snatched in Bowness as the visitors enjoyed a coffee or meal in the town.

Police say the first theft took place in the Lakeview Pub and Carvery, on May 24, during the busy lunchtime period.

The second was on Friday in the same pub on Glebe Road, and the third happened at Costa Coffee, in Royal Square on Lake Road.

Again both thefts happened in the early afternoon.

Detectives say they are becoming increasingly concerned that thieves are targeting tourists.

Windermere Acting Inspector Ian McClymont said people needed to be on their guard.

He said: “This type of offence is very rare in the area and it continues to be one of the safest places to visit.

“People out and about in the Lakes should take simple precautions to protect their valuables.

“Keep handbags with you at all times in local pubs and cafes.

“Also make sure any valuables you have in your car are kept out of sight.”

Police say a witness in Costa Coffee spotted a handbag thief and described him as about 6ft 2in with a stocky build.

He was wearing a baseball cap and an orange striped top.

She said he looked Italian.

Acting Insp McClymont said if anyone who spotted a person acting suspiciously around unattended bags they should call the police.

He said: “We are progressing with a number of lines of inquiry into these thefts and will be targetingthe premises where these thefts have occurred.”

If you can help police track down the culprits call 0845 330 0247.