Officers investigating the theft of a woman's wallet while she shopped at a market have released CCTV images of three women they want to speak to.

Polish-born Ania Kasprzak, who has only recently recovered from breast cancer, thought she was doing an elderly lady a favour when she went to help as she struggled to reach a shoe on a high shelf at Maidstone Market at Lockmeadow.

But as she did so, the woman's friends took Ms Kasprzak's wallet from her shopping bag, which was resting in a pushchair she uses as a trolley.

The thieves are believed to have opened her bag and removed the wallet that had been attached to the bag by a safety strap.

Now, police officers investigating the allegations have issued images of three women who they believe may have important information in connection with the crime.

"It's so distressing. It's your life in your wallet," said Ms Kasprzak who has lived in Maidstone for 15 years, speaking after the theft which happened between 11.30am and 11.45am on Saturday, July 24.

"It had my Polish ID card, which will be a real hassle to renew, as well as all my credit cards, which I now have to contact the banks about."

Ms Kasprzak is a regular shopper at the market and an occasional trader there.

She makes and sells glass angels for charity.

Ms Kasprzak, from Union Street, added: "I love Maidstone Market normally.

"There's such nice people and a good friendly atmosphere."

Anyone who recognises the women in the CCTV is asked to call the west Kent appeals line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/131948/21.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111, or by using the online form on its website.

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone