Canvey police are on the lookout for a gang of thieves who snatched a purse.

The trio distracted the manageress of the Bees Knees store in Furtherwick Road at 2pm yesterday and then delved into her handbag and stole her purse.

All three were white and in their late teens.

The first was six foot tall with short, black, gelled hair and he wore a white roll-neck jumper, blue jeans and white trainers.

The second was around 5ft 6in, with black, short hair and he wore white jeans and trainers and a long black bomber-style jacket with a tie around the middle.

The final suspect was shorter than the other two and had a long face. He had short, dark hair and wore dark jeans, white trainers and a dark top.

All three smelled strongly of aftershave and were well spoken.

After the theft, they walked through the Knightswick shopping centre and got into a blue car parked in Adelsburg Road before making off.

Police know a woman saw the gang get into the car and are urgently appealing for her to come forward.

Anyone with information should contact PC Alex Gartshore at Canvey police station on 01268 511212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

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