POLICE have released CCTV images of two men they are eager to speak to in connection with a distraction theft at a supermarket in Stroud.

A series of similar crimes have taken place across the whole of the county.

The thieves watch as shoppers input their PIN at tills in the supermarket.

Once the shopper is in the car park and is putting their shopping and handbag in their car they are distracted by someone asking for directions or a favour.

A second person then steals banks cards from their bag or wallet.

Following these incidents the bank cards have then been used in supermarkets, cash points and shopping centres not only in Gloucestershire, but also in Banbury, Chipping Norton, London, Swindon, Coalville and Birmingham (including Handsworth, Smethwick, Edgbaston, Cape Hill, Hales Owen and The Bullring).

The CCTV released today is of two men that may be able to help with one such incident at the Tesco on Stratford Road in Stroud on July 19.

PC Annabel Brittain, who is leading the investigation into these crimes, said: "These are nasty, calculated offences involving, we believe, criminals travelling to our area especially to steal local people's hard-earned cash by exploiting their kind nature.”

If you recognise either of these men people please call Gloucestershire Police on 101 quoting incident number 404 July 19.