A WOMAN'S purse was reportedly stolen as she was shopping in the centre of Bicester.

Police said they were patrolling the town centre today after the incident yesterday at about 1.30pm.

Thames Valley Police explained in an online alert that purse lanyards and bells are available for free from the front counter at Bicester Police Station to prevent such thefts.

The bells tell you when somebody is moving your purse and the lanyards secure it.