Adrian Dolan, area co-ordinator for town, also advised people never to resist a thief should they be targeted.

He said: “What is more important, your life or a bit of money? If they want your money, let them have it. And get them away from you – whatever happens you don’t want to get hurt.”

The advice was given at the Castle Ward tenants and residents meeting.

It comes after five elderly shoppers were targeted in the town centre by thieves who took purses or bags from them, and made off unseen.

Pensioner, Maureen Barraclough, 67, also had her bag snatched from her as she walked down the old railway line towards Sainsbury’s. Mrs Barraclough gave chase to one of the two young thieves but could not catch up with him.

Mr Dolan told residents to carry all their personal items as close to their body as possible – suggesting a bum bag because this could not be taken from their person.

Cllr Janet Jefferson, chairman of the meeting, said: “We must all be vigilant.”