AN 85-year-old woman was victim of a distraction theft in Romsey.

The elderly lady was approached by a woman who claimed to be deaf and asked for a donation to charity.

The victim agreed, filled out a form that the woman had, and gave a donation - the woman then hugged the victim before walking away.

The victim later found that around £250 in cash had been taken from her handbag.

The culprit is described as:

  • White
  • Around 5ft 4ins tall
  • Blonde hair
  • Aged in her 20s

A police spokesperson said: "It took place at around 10.20am on Friday 13 December at the Waitrose car park in Alma Road.

"We are treating this as a distraction theft.

"If you have any information about what happened that day, or have any other information that may help our enquiries, call 101, quoting the reference number 44190447748."

The police have issued the following advice following the theft;

  • keep purses and bags closed and secure at all times
  • be aware of your surroundings and what is happening around you when you are out shopping
  • carry bags in front of you or diagonally across your chest
  • return cards to your purse or wallet quickly and zip it up or button it
  • use a purse that’s difficult for others to open – one that zips or snaps shut it best
  • conceal your wallet in a buttoned or zipped pocket where it doesn’t bulge
  • don’t hang bags on the back of your chair or a pushchair