Welwyn Garden City: Sentimental item taken in Postino Lounge

The incident took place between 12.15pm and 12.30pm on Wednesday, December 13, when the bag was taken from a chair in Postino Lounge, Howardsgate.

The victim's iPhone 11, a purse with cash inside and keys were in the handbag, along with a small Budha ornament and a keepsake of particular sentimental value - a small wooden heart.

A CCTV image of two individuals that Hertfordshire police would like to speak to. (Image: Hertfordshire Constabulary)

The victim’s purse was later returned to her by a kind member of the public who found it discarded, however it was missing the cash.

Hertfordshire police are now appealing for the public's help in identifying two individuals pictured by CCTV.

PC Lee Rowson, from the Welwyn Hatfield Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “We want to speak to the people pictured as we believe they were in the area at the time and could have information that might help us.

“If you recognise them or you pictured please email me at lee.rowson@herts.police.uk quoting crime reference 41/99414/23.

A CCTV image of two individuals that Hertfordshire police would like to speak to. (Image: Hertfordshire Constabulary)

“I’d also like to hear from anyone who thinks they may seen the stolen items. We want to be able to reunite the victim with her possessions, especially those with sentimental value. Please let us know if you think you can help.

“Finally, I’d like to remind residents of steps they can take to protect themselves against thieves. Never let your valuables leave your sight and be aware of your surroundings in busy places such as restaurants and shops. 

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"It is also a good idea to keep a list, separate from your wallet and phone, of contact numbers of family in case your phone is stolen.”

Information can also be reported to Hertfordshire police online at www.herts.police.uk/ro/report or by calling the police's non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 41/99414/23.

Hertfordshire police's web chat function can be used by visiting herts.police.uk/contact.

Postino Lounge, in Howardsgate, Welwyn Garden City. (Image: Google Maps)

Anonymous information can be given by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.