IT was the cash she had saved throughout the year to help give herself and her family a happy Christmas.

But great-grandmother Betty Naylor has been left shocked and saddened after £500 was grabbed from her handbag while she shopped in Southampton city centre.

The 79-year-old had withdrawn the money just minutes before it was taken, as she looked for a present for a disabled neighbour.

CCTV footage has revealed the pensioner could have fallen victim to three women who police believe may be part of a ruthlessly efficient pick-pocketing gang.

Betty, who lives in Challis Court, Southampton, had only ventured out in the cold because she had just heard she had a new great-grandchild – her eighth.

She said: “I don’t go out much, I’m a bit nervous because of my agoraphobia.

“But I got a card saying I had a new baby great-grandson, and I was so thrilled I thought I would go out and get something.

“I was going to get this money out to see me through Christmas, so I thought it was the right time, and I could go and get it and do some shopping.

“It’s a lot of money. It would have got all the presents for Christmas. That’s money I’ve saved all year.”

Betty withdrew the cash from Santander in Hanover Buildings and put it in an envelope in her bag, which was in a shopping trolley she always takes with her.

She then walked to Primark to pick up a petticoat for her friend.

Betty said: “I was asking one of the girls where I could find one and when I turned round the cord I have on my trolley wasn’t there.

“I looked in my handbag, but the envelope had gone and I just got a sick feeling in my stomach. I honestly still can’t believe it happened.

“I’ve never thought of using my card because I wasn’t scared of losing my money. At my age you just don’t consider it.”

“I think it’s so wicked.”

The three women are described as aged between 20 and 35 and slim. They had long dark hair and were dressed in winter clothing.

Anyone with information on the theft on Tuesday at about 11.30am should call Southampton Central police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111