Police publish image of Portslade conman

Do you recognise the face of a conman who is suspected of stealing £50 from the purse of an 82-year-old woman in Portslade?

The man is alleged to have called at her home in Newtimber Drive, Portslade, at about 4.30pm on Thursday 18 October.

Sussex Police said that the pensioner opened her door to the man who was selling cards and calendars but he distracted her by asking for a glass of water.

After the suspect left, the victim found that £50 was missing from her purse.

Police have published an e-fit of the man they want to speak to about the theft.

A police spokesman said: “The man claimed his name was Jimmy and we are releasing this image in the hope that someone may recognise him.

“Distraction burglary is a dispicable crime, with offenders praying on some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.”

At the time, police described the man as white, aged in his forties, 5ft 6in tall, of large stocky build and with balding gingery hair. He was carrying a rucksack containing calendars and cards.

Anyone with information is asked to call Sussex Police on 101.