The thief targets women who are shopping alone and distracts them

Police are warning shoppers about a thief who distracts his victims by asking for cooking instructions.

At least eight purses or handbags were stolen in Tesco, Asda and Sainsbury's in Dunstable over the past week.

Police believe other thefts may have gone unreported.

The thief is described as being of Albanian or Kosovan appearance and sometimes carries a baby.

Police said the man tends to strike up conversations with lone, elderly women.

While the victims try to give advice he steals their purses from shopping trolleys.

Anyone who has come in contact with the suspect or who has had a purse stolen under similar circumstances is asked to contact Bedfordshire Police.