A PENSIONER’S purse was stolen as part of a “hugging scam”.

As she was walking towards a supermarket the 88-year-old victim was hugged by a stranger who said “welcome to Waitrose”.

But afterwards she realised her purse, containing cash and cards, had been taken.

A police investigation found that thief had tried and failed to use one of the cards at a nearby Tesco Extra.

The incident happened at about 2.10pm on Saturday February 23 outside Waitrose in Via Ravenna, Chichester.

Police believe it may be linked to an organised crime group.

They said it is also possible other similar incidents have occurred which have not been reported.

Police are urging anyone who recognises the woman in these images, or who has been the victim of this scam, to report it online or call 101, quoting serial 126 of 27/02.