A WOMAN has been arrested on suspicion of theft after an 81-year-old woman reported her handbag stolen.

Hannah Bradley, 20, of St James Avenue, Brighton, presented herself to police after The Argus published a CCTV image of a woman police wanted to speak to in connection with the theft.

Margaret Best, of Moulsecoomb Way, Brighton, said her handbag was taken by a woman posing as a Good Samaritan and helping her on the bus.

Mrs Best, known locally as Peggy, said she was struggling up the hill towards her nearest bus stop, in Moulsecoomb Way, when a young woman crossed the road to offer her some help.

The missing bag contained bank cards and cash belonging to Mrs Best’s daughter Sandra, 54, who lives in a care home.

Sussex Police said Ms Bradley was arrested at 4.15pm on January 16, questioned and has been released on bail until February 10.

Ms Bradley denied having anything to do with the alleged theft.

She said: “I don’t have anything to hide and I am going out and showing my face.

“Me and my solicitors are hopeful this will be dropped before I return to answer bail.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting serial 639 of December 2.