POLICE are investigating a number of incidents where a man has been covering vulnerable people with ketchup and then stealing their purses and wallets.

Reports state that a man, thought to be in his 50s, is approaching vulnerable people in Accrington town centre before throwing ketchup on them and telling them they are bleeding. 

The man then offers to help get them cleaned up before leaving the area.

Once the man has gone, victims are finding that their purses and wallets have been stolen, a police spokesman said.

The man is described as being tanned, of average height with a foreign accent. 

There have been three recorded reports over the past two days.

A police spokesman said: "We are currently investigating a number of incidents where a male has been approaching vulnerable members of the public, applying tomato ketchup on them before talking to them stating that they are bleeding and attempting to help.

"We have had three reports over the past two days from elderly, vulnerable members of the community. 

"Once the ketchup has been removed the victims are finding that their purses and wallets have been stolen.

"The male is described as being tanned, average height, foreign accent and aged approximately 50 years old.

"Please share this with family or friends that visit the town centre as this male is clearly targeting vulnerable people. We will keep you up to date with any further developments."