Good Samaritans who found a lost handbag in Southend were told by police - give it to the owner yourself.
Shocked - Barbara and her friend Elaine
Barbara Morris, 54, of Flemming Crescent, Leigh, found the bag in public toilets near Elmer Approach, Southend.
She and her friend Elaine Jones, 51, walked to Southend police station and were told Essex Police's policy over lost items had changed and they should return the bag to its owner.
Mrs Jones said: "In our view it was stolen property and the public could be relying on total strangers to return their valuables."
Mrs Morris said the owner was grateful to receive her bag, which had insurance details, house keys and a driving licence inside.
Since late July the burden of dealing with property, particularly lost or stolen mobile phones, has forced Essex Police to revise its policy. A spokesman said: "We actually have no legal obligation to deal with lost or found property.
"Members of the public are still encouraged to report items they have found.
"But if it is clear who the property belongs then it is not necessary to employ police personnel to reunite it with its owner."
Published Wednesday August 18, 2004
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