A shopper is considering legal action against supermarket giant Morrisons after her purse was taken by pickpockets.

Elizabeth Hovska claims the city centre Westgate store has no video cameras operating or warning signs telling people to be on their guard.

"I was carrying my shoulder bag and it was closed, but they still managed to take my purse, which contained £60 in cash, credit cards and my house keys," she said.

Miss Hovska, who lives in Heaton, has written to the company asking for compensation for her loss and the problems the theft has caused.

"I was very shaken afterwards. I only get £75 a week invalidity benefit so the loss of £60 is serious,'' she said.

"I also had to change the locks at home because my house keys were taken as well."

Miss Hovska, who suffers from a food allergy syndrome, claims a second woman reported a purse theft about 10 minutes later.

"I am considering legal action against the store. I think it's disgusting they don't have sufficient security measures against thefts and they don't warn people. I have since talked to two other people who had their purses stolen at the store and I would like to hear from anyone else."

Her solicitor, Jaroslaw Stachiw, of Stachiw and Bashir, said: "I have written a letter of complaint to Morrisons and I am surprised a store of this type has no surveillance cameras."

A Morrisons spokesman declined to reveal how many similar incidents had happened in the store but said: "We don't have a persistent problem."

She confirmed the store had no surveillance cameras or signs warning of pickpockets but added: "Shoppers are reminded of the need to be vigilant and look after their personal belongings, via in-store, taped announcements which are played at least every hour.

"In addition trolleys carry special stickers reinforcing the crime prevention message."

She said Miss Hovska's letter was in the hands of company solicitors.

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