THIEVES stole a mobile phone from a woman having a drink in a Thurrock pub.

The victim, who was drinking in The Crown & Anchor in High Street, Aveley, had left her handbag on the floor when someone dipped into it and stole a silver Samsung mobile worth £40.

Police probing the theft urged people not to leave bags left unattended.

Laura Anderson of Thurrock Police said: “You should never leave your bag insecure or unattended, as it only takes thieves a matter of seconds to strike.”

Witnesses to the theft, which happened between 10.15pm and 2am on Saturday, August 16 are asked to contact Grays police on 0300 333 4444.