A FRAUDSTER stole cash from an Eynsham shopkeeper after posing as someone selling alcohol.

The thief approached a business owner in the West Oxfordshire village, claiming he was closing down his own business and was selling surplus alcohol stock.

The victim agreed a sale and handed over the cash, and understood the seller was going outside to collect the stock from a van and bring it in.

Instead he fled with the cash in a black convertible car. 

Thames Valley Police has today launched a CCTV appeal to find a man they want to speak to in relation to the investigation.

Officers said the man could have 'vital information' about the fraud, which happened on Thursday, April 19 between 3.15pm and 3.30pm. 

Investigating officer PC Henry Gillingham, based at Witney police station, said: “I am keen to speak to the man in these CCTV images, as he may have information which is vital to our investigation.

“Anyone who recognises this man, or has any information or CCTV footage that could assist with the investigation, should contact 101 quoting reference 43180126627.

"Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

Police did not specify which shop in Eynsham was targeted.