A COMMUNITY was today urged to 'shop' two men who are trying to sell several thousands of pounds of stolen jewellery in the street.

The pair have been driving around the Bastwell area of Blackburn in a plum-coloured car and offering the items to passers-by.

On Monday, a bag containing the jewellery was snatched from a middle-aged woman walking in Whalley New Road.

It is not known whether the thief knew she was carrying the large amount of bangles, chains and rings, much of which was of great sentimental value to her.

A white man ran past her, grabbed the bag and fled. Several days later, it was reported to police that a white man and an Afro-Caribbean man were offering a large amount of jewellery to passers-by near to where the theft happened.

It is believed other people have been offered the goods, and police want them to come forward as they may have vital information which could snare the thieves.

Det Con Chris Shaw, of Blackburn CID, said: "Given that this was in the area where the theft took place, it is likely that the men are connected to the theft of the jewellery.

"If anyone has been offered the jewellery we would like to speak to them.

"The woman is distressed by the incident because of the significant sentimental value of the items. We are very keen to identify these people. We would also like to remind people in the Bastwell area to ensure their bags are carried securely so they don't expose themselves to possible crime."

The white man was aged about 25, of slim build, 5ft 8in, with dark straight hair and was scruffy.

The Afro-Caribbean man was of the same height, in his 30s, of medium build and had short shaved hair.

No description was available of the thief who snatched the woman's bag.

Call DC Shaw on 01254 353569 with information.