Police are appealing for witnesses after a doorstep conman stole from a 92-year-old woman in Watlington.

Officers said yesterday morning a man called at the door of a the woman in Pauls Way.

He claimed to be there to service the storage heater and informed the woman that he owed her some money and asked where her purse was.

The woman, who has poor eyesight, handed her purse over to the man to put the money in. When she later checked the purse, she discovered that money had been stolen.

The man is described as black and about 5ft 6in tall.

Det Sgt Darren Cartwright said: “I would like to speak to anyone who lives in the area who may have seen this man walking around, or anyone else who may have had a man matching this description call at their home.

“I would also like to remind people to never let strangers into their home without first checking who they are and where they come from.

“Always asked for identity and verify this with whichever organisation they claim to be from if it is an unexpected call. Legitimate callers will not mind and will understand why you are taking these precautions.

“If you have anyone suspicious calling at your home then please let us know by calling the 24-hour non-emergency number on 0845 8 505 505. If you feel at risk then never hesitate to call 999.”

Anyone with information about this incident should contact Det Sgt Cartwright via the 24-hour Thames Valley Police Enquiry Line on 0845 8 505 505. Alternatively, you can contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.