And yesterday Police emphasised the dangers of leaving valuables unattended.

The warning follows three beach thefts on Thursday afternoon.

In one, a visitor returned from a swim at Warwick Long Bay to find her purse had been rifled. A thief had taken $750 in cash, a camera, and other personal items.

Two people fell victim to a similar theft at Horseshoe Beach.

Although the crook was spotted by witnesses, he escaped with some $35 in cash.

"We frequently remind people not to leave valuables unattended at the beach,'' said Police spokesman P.c. Gary Venning.