Free purse bells for Sheffield shoppers

Police have been handing out free purse bells to shoppers in Sheffield in an attempt to deter pick-pockets.

The security bells make a distinctive noise to alert the owners to someone trying to steal their purse.

They have been handed out in the city centre, particularly to elderly women who are more likely to be targeted.

Police said the initiative was also intended to make people more aware of the need to protect their property, especially around Christmas.