Thieves stole a woman's antique wedding ring, once her grandmother's, as she went to use a bottle bank.

The two men stood either side of the of the 36-year-old victim and distracted her as she began putting bottles into the recycling bank near the cycle track at Preston Park, Brighton, on Wednesday at 9.30am.

They managed to slip off two rings and a bangle, worth more than £3,000 without her noticing, before walking off.

PC James Ward said: "It was very cold and the rings were slipped off very quickly without the victim realising.

"These thieves are obviously professionals and I would urge people to be on their guard."

The ring, which had belonged to the victim's grandmother, was more than 100-years-old. It was set with three turquoise stones.

The other ring was gold and set with five diamonds. It was worth more than £2,000.

The men, who were between 16 and 20-years-old, were described as being of medium build, 5ft 11in to 6ft tall. They were wearing dark, baggy clothing with hoods.

If anyone has any information about the rings or the theft, they should call PC Ward on 0845 6070999 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.