The theft of handbags from pubs, clubs and restaurants in Brighton and Hove has reached near epidemic proportions.

Last year, more than 1,000 were stolen and each theft caused anguish to the owner. Credit cards had to be stopped, cash was stolen and personal items such as photographs were lost forever.

Now police have come up with a simple, inexpensive and effective idea to stop some of the thefts.

Specially-designed clips are being supplied to city centre venues so women can secure their bags under tables and bars.

It would still be possible for determined thieves to cut through bag straps but these clips would stop opportunists.

Their mere presence should also encourage women to keep a closer eye on their belongings and eliminate this despicable form of petty crime.