A police operation to tackle a spate of purse thefts in Wiltshire supermarkets has resulted in a man being jailed.

Marin Mitielu, of Romania, pleaded guilty to thefts, attempted theft and fraud at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on Monday. He was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison.

He had been arrested outside the Morrisons store in Warminster last Friday.

Warminster’s Neighbourhood Policing Team had increased patrols after a spate of purse and wallet thefts in Warminster and Westbury during the last month.

Inspector Alan Webb praised shoppers, store staff and police officers. He said: “All played their parts, from the actions of the person alerting the store staff, the security officer and staff at Morrisons and the pro-active work of Sean Brady and Hanna Jamieson from the Warminster and Westbury NPTs.

"I hope this gives out the clear message that we will work together to protect people from criminals who prey on them.”