Women’s bag theft ‘could lead to financial distress’

A stolen handbag could have disastrous financial repercussions for the victim, a new study has suggested.

Research conducted by Churchill Home Insurance revealed women in their 30s have purchased designer bags that cost an average of £113.

With contents included, such as a mobile phone, house and car keys, cash and cards, the actual value of a lady’s carrier could be in the region of £1,800.

The survey showed one-in-five women have had their purses pinched, while one-in-20 females in their 20s have been victims in the last year alone.

Claire Foster, spokeswoman for Churchill, commented: “Remembering to keep an eye out for thieves is crucial, as it could end up costing a small fortune to replace your bag and possessions.”

Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks recently released statistics that showed more than six million people in Britain are not adequately insured to cover losses that would be accrued from burglary.

By Joe Shervin