A MAN has been charged with theft after members of the public became volunteer cops following an incident in Dudley.

The incident happened in Trindle Road, Kates Hill, yesterday morning, (February 22).

The offender grapped the 49-year-old victim by the neck, and ran off with her handbag.

Three people assisted police in the arrest of the bag snatcher. Two chased the man, while the other alerted police by calling 999.

West Midlands Police officers arrived to find the alleged ofender pinned down on the ground by the two members of the public.

Ben Wilkes, aged 27 and of no fixed address, has been charged in connection with the offence and is due to appear before Dudley magistrates today (Monday)

The woman was badly shaken but unhurt, and was reunited with her bag.

Chief Inspector Jack Hadley, said: "What a fantastic display of community spirit.

"They heard the lady's screams and realised the man had run off with her handbag - but they were determined he wouldn't get away.

"They did exactly the right thing in dialling 999 straight away so we could get officers on the scene quickly.

"I'd like to thank the men for their help."