Women drivers have been targeted by bag snatchers in York as they sat in their vehicles.

Police are investigating two incidents that occurred within hours of each other on opposite sides of the city.

A thief opened a passenger door and snatched a rucksack from a woman as she waited outside her home in St Benedict Street, off Nunnery Lane.

The man, who is described as in his mid-30s, about 5ft 9ins tall and wearing a three-quarter length waterproof jacket, said: "I'll have your bag young lady," when he struck yesterday afternoon.

In a second incident in Gillygate at about 5.30pm, a man reached into a stationary car through an open window and snatched a handbag containing cash and house keys.

The woman driver, who was waiting at traffic lights, described the man as being in his late 20s, with greasy dark hair. He was "scruffy", wearing dark jacket, grey fleece, hat and khaki trousers.

Police have asked anyone with information about either incident to contact them on 01904 631321.

Updated: 12:48 Saturday, March 08, 2003