A 91-year-old woman was duped of her purse by a distraction burglar who tricked his way into her home in North Hinksey Lane, Oxford.

The man talked himself into the pensioner’s home and stole a black leather purse containing bank cards and £130.

He is described as white, about 5ft 2in tall, slim, in his late 20s or early 30s and had very short dark hair. He was wearing dark clothing.

The incident happened at lunchtime on Thursday last week, but details were only released yesterday.

Dc Paul Reece said: “This is a cowardly act and an upsetting crime targeted towards an elderly woman.

“I am keen to bring the man responsible to justice and I am appealing for anyone who noticed a suspicious man fitting the description in the area to contact police. I am also appealing for everyone to keep an eye on elderly neighbours and challenge any suspicious visitors.”

Call Dc Reece on 101.