June 10 2013.

Police in Seaford are warning local shoppers to be on their guard after an 81-year-old woman had her bank card stolen in a distraction theft in Morrisons in Seaford on Friday.

The woman had been shopping in the store at about 11.30am and was approached by two women as she returned her trolley. The women, in their 30s and speaking a foreign language, claimed she had dropped a £5 note and insisted she took it. Shortly afterwards she found her debit card missing and £500 had been taken from her account. It is thought that the women stole her card having earlier noted her PIN number as she was paying for her shopping.

Seaford Police Community Support Officer Noel Daniels said: "The victim in this case is very distressed and appears to have been deliberately targeted. Though this offence took place in Seaford we are warning residents, particularly the elderly, across the Lewes District to be on their guard against this sort of theft, especially when shopping in supermarkets. When using your PIN shield the card and make sure you are not being overlooked. Also be wary of any attempt to distract you such as the trick they have used. If you see anything suspicious or are approached by anyone matching the descripion of the women please report it to shop staff or the police straight away.

"Anyone who recognises these women or has any information is asked to contact police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."