A WOMAN today appealed for the return of her daughter's birthday present after being targeted by pickpockets in Southampton.

Mrs Judy Walker, 62, of Totton, was in the city centre, including WestQuay, on Friday afternoon, when her purse and other items were stolen from her shoulder bag.

The distinctive green purse contained £100 cash, a belated birthday gift for one of her daughters.

Mrs Walker, of Totton, said: "I was shopping with my husband and had no idea what had happened until I needed my purse and it wasn't there. I am very keen to get it - or any of its contents - back."

Contact police on 0845 045 4545 if you have any information about this crime.