A 70-YEAR-OLD woman has had £700 stolen in a distraction theft in Bicester.

The elderly victim was in the car park of Tesco in Lakeview Drive when she was approached by a man asking for directions.

He handed her a piece of paper and pen to help direct him to a hospital in Bristol.

While the victim was distracted, her purse containing around £700 was stolen.

It happened about 10am on Tuesday, March 26, and police today have released CCTV to help with the appeal.

Investigating officer PC Tina Maulson based at Bicester police station said: “I am releasing the CCTV image of this man as I believe that he may have information that is vital to this investigation.

“I am urging anybody who recognises this man or has any information in relation to this incident to contact police on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference ‘43190091666’ or make a report online.

“Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”