Razor-sharp stitch removers could prove very dangerous if they get into the wrong hands, a district nurse has warned.

The stitch removers were among a haul of medical equipment stolen from a car as the nurse was on her rounds in Southend.

Also taken was the nurse's irreplaceable college work.

A spokesman for Southend police said: "The items were taken from the victim's blue Kia Pride car while it was parked in Cunningham Close, Shoebury.

"A white and navy blue bag with a Smith and Nephew logo contained dressings, handwipes and some very sharp stitch removers.

"These are in sealed packets and are 3in long and curved.

"They can cut very deeply and the nurse is concerned that they could be very dangerous if they fall into the hands of children.

The spokesman added: "Also taken was a green suede shopping bag which contained college work and a diary."

If you saw the items being taken between 4pm and 4.15pm on Wednesday, or can help call the crime management unit at Southend police on 01702 431212.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.