THIEVES smashed a car window and fled with a handbag from a beauty spot.

Police suspect the criminals kept watch on the car and its occupants at Stonebarrow in Charmouth before striking between 1pm and 4.40pm on August 22.

Crime scene investigators attended and took evidence from the car for examination.

Cash, credit cards and keys were stolen from the handbag which had been kept in the boot by the owners.

PC Richard Winward said: “Dorset has many beauty spots to enjoy, but valuables simply must not be left in vehicles when they are unattended.

“Offenders look out for cars pulling up and people placing handbags and other property in the boot.

“If possible, leave valuables at home or take them with you on your walk.”

Mr Winward also said this type of crime was quite common in the area.

He added: “Thefts from cars at local beauty spots are a problem every year and the police take it very seriously. At every opportunity, crime scene investigators will attend and examine victim’s car.”