A 33-year-old woman had a gold chain, worth around £700, snatched from her neck while walking through Manor Park.

She was walking along Kensington Road yesterday when a young man ran up behind her and ripped it off her neck.

The suspect ran off down Wordsworth Avenue, pursued by a passer-by who had heard the woman shouting for help. The suspect got into a car being driven by a 19-year-old man and the car made off. Police arrived on the scene and after a short pursuit, the car was stopped by police officers.

Both suspects were detained and arrested. The driver was bailed to return to an east London police station. The other suspect, aged 17, was charged and remanded in custody.

Crime prevention design advisor, PC Andy Whitfield, said: “Even in a city as busy and crowded as London, incidents of mugging and pick-pocketing are still quite low.

“Knowing how and where criminals who commit these crimes operate will help you avoid falling victim to them. The easiest way to prevent this type of offence is by keeping your jewellery hidden —thieves and robbers will see what you are wearing in terms of the monetary value. Don’t get distracted whilst you are out and about —stay focused and alert.”

Police tips for preventing gold jewellery and other valuables being snatched:

-Be aware of thieves and keep your possession safe

-Be discreet with your belongings: displaying expensive jewellery or electronic devices, like mobile phones or cameras, could attract unwanted attention.

-Plan your journey as far as possible in advance.

-Avoid dark or deserted areas late at night.

?-Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert to what’s going on around you: Thieves frequently operate around tube stations, cash machines, car parks, bus stations and overcrowded areas, especially at rush hour.

-Never leave your bags or other valuables unattended in public places.

-Don’t make your mobile phone a moving target. Don’t tempt mobile phone thieves, be aware when making a call.