A serial handbag snatcher who preys on elderly women may have claimed a dozen victims in Swindon.

Police today issued a warning for people to be on their guard following the spate of attacks which began late last month.

The first was in Morris Street, Rodbourne, and the most recent, in Prospect Place, Old Town, which happened on Thursday last week.

The remaining thefts were concentrated in the Gorse Hill and Pinehurst areas of the town.

The thief may be targeting the women in the hope that they are carrying large sums of money for Christmas presents.

Det Sgt Tim Corner, the officer investigating the case, said: "The oldest victim was 87 and the youngest 58.

"We are as sure as we can be that the same person is responsible for the attacks, although the descriptions given have varied because of the ages of the victims.

"There has been a distinct lack of witnesses other than those who have been attacked."

In most cases, victims have been knocked to the ground near shops.

Det Sgt Corner added: "We want to get the message across that people especially older women should be extra-vigilant.

"They should not put large sums of money into their handbags, even though it is the time for Christmas shopping."

Detectives are also warning people, especially the elderly, to be on their guard against thieves who trick their way into homes by pretending to represent public services such as the council.

Anybody with information about the handbag snatches can contact the police on Swindon 528111.

Or they can call the confidential Crimestoppers hotline on (0800) 555111.