A WALLET was stolen from a pensioner during a distraction burglary in East Dorset.

Police say at around 3.45pm on Wednesday, September 20, a man entered the home of the victim, a man aged in his 70s, at Oak Tree Park in St Leonards.

The man claimed he was there to check the electrics and distracted the victim before stealing his wallet containing cash and leaving the property.

The offender is described as white, aged in his 30s, of slim build with a thin round face.

He was clean shaven and wearing a dark jumper and dark trousers.

Officers are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

PC Tracey Downer, of East Dorset police, said: “We are continuing to investigate this incident and officers have visited the victim to provide reassurance and offer advice to residents in the local area.

“I would ask anyone who witnessed this incident or who saw any suspicious activity in the area at the time to please contact police.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to remind residents to always ask for identification if you have any doubts about the intentions of a visitor to your property.

They should have no issues with showing it if they are genuine.

“Never let anyone you do not know into your property. If you do have any concerns contact a family member or neighbour and inform the police.”

For further crime prevention advice visit dorset.police.uk/ help-advice-crime-prevention/ Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk, via email 101@ dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55170146942. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.