Police are out to stop Sussex people falling prey to pickpockets on the London Underground.

So far this year, British Transport Police have had 38 reports from East Sussex visitors to the capital.

Officers have set up Operation Jackdaw to promote caution among tube users.

Sergeant Terry Allen said: "A few simple precautions can make a world of difference. These pickpockets are ruthless.

"It might seem quite a minor crime but it can cause a lot of upset and worry if it leaves you stuck in London with no money or ticket. People might lose sentimental stuff too."

Gangs of pickpockets, or "dips", employ various tactics to steal from travellers.

These include blocking tube train doors, slashing bags with razor blades and creating crowds to jostle victims.

One victim, Kathleen Hill, from Saltdean, went to Earl's Court in London for the Ideal Home Exhibition with her husband.

As she left the Underground her purse was snatched. It contained £85 in cash and her credit cards.

Mrs Hill said: "I never felt a thing. We were stuck in London without our travel tickets, exhibition passes and any way to get money.

"It took us ages to sort it all out and we ended up missing the show. It was very distressing. It was supposed to be a nice day out and it was ruined."

Police say they have cut the monthly number of pickpocket attacks from 2,000 to 500 during the last year.

But Sgt Allen said: "It's important to take elementary precautions. Always keep valuables out of sight and close to the person."

BTP officers are handing out leaflets on Operation Jackdaw at main Sussex railway stations.