Trolley coins aim to stop robbery

The substitute £1 coins hang on a key ring

Special "trolley coins" are being handed out by Gloucestershire police to try to prevent robbery.

The substitute £1 coins are for use in supermarkets, gyms lockers or anywhere where a pound coin is needed.

By using the coins, which are on a keyring, people do not have to take out their purses or wallets in public where they could become victims of robbery.

The trolley coins were being handed out at Gloucester Fire Station's Open Day on Sunday.

Pc Kevin Ireland, said: "The trolley coins are all part of the Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership's (CDRP) fight against crime.

"Thieves are opportunists and when someone is distracted in a supermarket car park looking in a purse, they could become a victim."