Bogus beggars are targeting diners in an organised scam designed to rob them of their mobile phones.

Police say the thieves approach diners with a begging letter and begin talking.

They then slip the piece of paper over any valuables left on tables and dash off with them.

Diners at the Havana restaurant in Duke Street, Brighton, have already been targeted by the thieves and it was only thanks to an eagle-eyed member of staff they were foiled.

A spokeswoman for Sussex Police said: "This is a scam which was being used in the city two years ago and we fear more incidents will occur as the warmer weather means more people will be eating and drinking outdoors.

"Be careful where you leave your phone - keep valuable items such as mobile phones, purses and wallets securely out of sight."