POLICE have stepped up patrols in Seaham following a spate of bag snatches from pensioners.

They believe the offences are unconnected - although they cannot rule out a link - and are asking residents not to be alarmed.

The latest incident happened on Tuesday at 10am in the Deneside area of Seaham when a 6ft youth, wearing a navy blue jacket and trousers, grabbed a woman's bag.

It was preceded by a shopping bag snatch at 4pm on Monday, September 9, in Woods Terrace, Murton, and one the following day at 2.40pm between Fox Street and Cottage Row, in Dawdon. The 70-year-old victim was left shocked, but unhurt.

Detective Chief Inspector Brian Tait said: "These are the most serious offences in Seaham for quite some time and are being given a high priority by local CID.

"All the details have been logged into a crime pattern analysis computer to see if any pattern emerges.

"We have also stepped up patrols by beat officers and traffic cars to deter the robbers from striking again.

"Incidents such as these are very distressing for the victims and just raise the fear of crime. But it must be stressed that street robberies are still extremely rare events.

"I don't think we have some sort of serial bag-snatcher operating in Seaham. The robberies are probably unconnected. The people carrying out these attacks are cowards, picking on people they think are vulnerable."

Anyone with information is asked to call Seaham CID on 0191-586 2621 or Crimestoppers on (0800) 555 111.