A CAMPAIGN has been launched to crackdown on teams of professional pickpockets operating in Bolton town centre.

The move came after a survey revealed that thieves were cashing in because of the carelessness of shoppers.

Last week, 230 people walking around Bolton's Ashburner Street market were caught with their bags and handbags fully open.

The survey was undertaken by Bolton Town Centre Company's ambassadors as they patrolled the busy indoor and outdoor markets.

The ambassadors approached all the shoppers and warned them that they were presenting easy targets for potential thieves.

The survey was carried out after police identified Ashburner Street as being a troublespot, with a high volume of thefts.

Today, as part on an operation to combat the number of thefts from shoppers, posters were being distributed to shops and stalls.

They depict a thief reaching into a shopper's bag and snatching a purse -- the most common form of theft.

The posters will also be displayed at the railway and bus stations and on car pay and display terminals.

Nigel Howarth, Bolton Town Centre Company's retail crime operation deputy manager, said the number of people spotted with their bags open was very "surprising".

He said: "Many people just did not realise that they were putting their property at risk.

"If they are easy enough for us to spot, then they are easy for a professional thief. The ambassadors will continue warning people about the dangers until police figures show that crimes levels are being driven down."

One ambassador, Mary Atherton, said: "It is unbelievable how many we have spotted."

The operation also aims to target every part of the town centre.

Mr Howarth added: "A lot of people do not realise their bags have been stolen until they reach the next pay point.

"We do not want to paint the market as somewhere not to go as it is not. It is a great place to shop. It is just that we are targeting that area at the minute.

"Some people were very embarrassed when we told them but the vast majority were grateful."

Police today said no thefts had occurred over the five days.

Sgt Bill Crittenden, of Bolton police, added: "It also goes to show just how vulnerable people can be. Handbags should be kept secure at all times."