PICKPOCKETS in Redbridge will have a harder time of it from next week as police hand out 1,000 security straps to shoppers.

The highly visible nylon straps are designed to attach purses or wallet to handbags, belts or trouser loops. They also feature a little bell which should ring if anyone tries to sneak the purse out.

Fairlop Safer Neighbourhoods Team will be giving away 1,000 of the straps at Barkingside Home Hardware, High Street, on Wednesday, October 7, from midday.

This year's batch is being jointly funded by Barkingside Business Partnership. Police will be on hand to fit the straps and demonstrate how they help keep valuables safe.