Mobile phone owners are being warned to keep them safe after a wave of distraction thefts.

Over the past few months teams of thieves have been targeting cafes, pubs and offices across Cheshire looking for people who put their phones down. People with iPhones are particular targets.

Posing as people handing out leaflets, they approach members of the public, place a leaflet or map over the phone and strike up a conversation. They then pick up the map or leaflets along with the phone and leave.

There have been three reported incidents in Macclesfield, all around the Chestergate area.

An iPhone 4 and Samsung S3 are among the the top of the range models to have been stolen.

Police bosses now say Police Community Support officers (PCSOs) will be sent out to speak to cafes, pubs and other businesses to warn staff and customers to keep their phones in their bags or pockets.

Det Sgt Andy Harwood said:"We would urge the public not to tempt fate by leaving their phones on the bar, cafe table or desk and be wary of anyone trying to engage them in conversation with a map or a leaflet.

"We are doing everything we can to try and apprehend the offenders who appear to work in pairs. They are described as eastern European or Mediterranean men and women ranging in age from late teens to their 40s.

"We would advise that you keep your iPhone out of sight and to be alert to strangers coming to your table trying to engage you in conversation.

"Please don’t leave your phone on the table, keep it in your pocket or your bag to avoid becoming their next victim."