A GOOD samaritan stepped in to help a woman whose purse was being stolen.

The man, known only as Michael, was outside the Sainsbury's in Western Road, Brighton, when a woman out shopping had her purse taken from her handbag by a female thief.

Michael intervened, distracting the would-be thief, who then dropped the purse and ran off.

He returned the purse to its owner but left the scene before police arrived.

Police say Michael is a very important witness and would like to speak to him about the incident on August 24 at 4pm. 

A 25-year old woman from Croydon was arrested on suspicion of theft, and after being interviewed was released on police bail until September 14.

Anyone with information should email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting serial 1150 of 24/08.