AN UPSET mum is warning parents to be wary after her laptop and bag were stolen from her car in Branscombe last week. Jo Hemery, 39, was picking her six and ten-year-old daughters up from Branscombe Primary School on Wednesday, December 3 when the thieves

AN UPSET mum is warning parents to be wary after her laptop and bag were stolen from her car in Branscombe last week.

Jo Hemery, 39, was picking her six and ten-year-old daughters up from Branscombe Primary School on Wednesday, December 3 when the thieves struck.

She believes the people responsible used a screwdriver to open up the driver's side door of her silver Citroen Xsara hatchback.

They stole a Toshiba laptop and a handbag containing her purse, mobile phone, diary and her youngest daughter's birthday money.

Jo said: "It happened on the main lane just up from the post office between 3.15 and 3.30.

"I locked my car and walked up the hill to the school to pick my girls up. I didn't realise until I got home as I was in a rush."

"I have spent two days trying to sort things out- to stop my mobile phone connection and cancel my credit cards.

"I have gone from being cross and angry to being upset. It is a bit like my home and is my own personal space.

"To think they have got my stuff with my name and address it just makes you feel vulnerable."

Jo, who lives in Honiton, now wants to warn other parents to be vigilant.

She added: "It's easy pickings in a way. The majority of people are mums who park at that time as they are picking up their children.

"Some times people think it is not worth reporting to the police. If anyone does have this happen to them they should definitely report it."

A police spokesperson said: "If anybody saw any unusual characters or vehicles in the area then please report it to us.

"A dark coloured Fiat style car was seen driving out of Branscombe shortly afterwards and may be connected, again anyone who saw this car should contact the police."

Anyone with information about the incident should contact Seaton Police on 08452 777444 quoting crime reference number KN/08/683.