The arrests were made after plain-clothed officers from the town centre beat team left unattended handbags containing marked property in two venues.

A 31-year-old was arrested on suspicion of theft after he was seen to take the bag and later found in possession of the marked property from inside it. He received a police caution.

Two women were arrested after they were seen to take a handbag left unattended and were later found in possession of marked property. A 22-year-old Mansfield woman and a 20-year-old, of Sutton, were released on police bail.

The team plans to continue running the operation in town centre venues but are also urging revellers to take care of their possessions.

Said Dave Shardlow, neighbourhood policing inspector for Mansfield South: "We hope this sends out a strong message, not only to would-be thieves, but also to people enjoying a night out in the town centre.

"While this operation is intended to deter thefts, we ask members of the public to help us by not giving thieves the opportunity to steal from them.

"Please take care of your possessions and never leave handbags, purses or mobile phones unattended, even for a few seconds."