NEW Forest detectives are appealing for information after distraction burglars took £300 from the purse of an elderly Godshill woman.

A short man in an oversized white jumper knocked on the woman’s door at about 11.30am on October 16 to tell her branches from a tree on her property were a danger to overhead cables.

When the victim, 96, came out to look, it is believed another person entered the house and took the money from a purse in her bedroom.

The first man then returned to his van and drove away towards Fordingbridge, saying he had to see his boss. He did not return.

This man is described at 5ft tall, slim and thin-faced. He wore a knitted white jumper that was “far too big for him”.

The victim did not report the crime until Monday, November 5, saying she did not wish to bother the police.

Detectives want to hear from anyone who saw a man who matches the description of the suspect or the vehicle he used. They also want to hear from anyone who has had a similar caller.

Detective Sergeant Matt Taylor reminded people to contact police as soon as they know they have been a victim of crime.

“The sooner police are made aware of a crime, the better chance they have of identifying a suspect, bringing that person to justice and, perhaps, recovering stolen property,” he said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Darren Hooper at Lyndhurst CID on 101 or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.