SHOPPERS in Ipswich have been warned to be on their guard today, after a pickpocket struck.Hundreds of pounds of money carefully saved for Christmas presents was stolen from an unwitting shopper.

By Tracey Sparling

SHOPPERS in Ipswich have been warned to be on their guard today, after a pickpocket struck.

Hundreds of pounds of money carefully saved for Christmas presents was stolen from an unwitting shopper.

Julie Fitch's purse was snatched from her bag as she walked to British Home Stores, after a cup of coffee with a friend at the Glasshouse.

The money she had saved up all year for her children, Emily, 13, and Jeremy, seven, disappeared in a second.

Mrs Fitch said today: "I went to get my purse and felt shock, then realisation dawned. I know things like this happen but I'd never thought it would happen to me.

"I went home empty-handed, and with a sick feeling, but the children won't go without their present - I've just had to cut my losses."

She added: "I never usually carry cash with me. My purse also contained personal things, photos, ICard, credit/debit cards and my driving licence - which I now have to pay £17 for a replacement."

To the offender she issued the message: "I trust you will be having a Merry Christmas. I however, am left with the realisation of what a deceitful, ugly and unsafe place Ipswich has become, and want other people to be aware of this problem."

The theft happened between 11.45am and 12.05pm on Saturday .

Anyone with any information should contact Pc David Abbott on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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A blue denim purse containing bank cards and £50 was also lost in the Ipswich town centre area on Monday afternoon.

Owner Charlotte Francis would like anyone who finds it to contact 01473 403358.