Derbyshire Police have released an image of a man they to speak to after a burglary and theft from an 88-year-old woman in Castle Gresley that has been described as 'despicable'.

The incident happened between 4.15 and 4.50pm on Thursday, 2 July on Princess Street.

Safer South Derbyshire Partnership originally reported the incident earlier this month Police warning after man cons his way into Castle Gresley home

A man entered the back garden of a house and spoke to the woman, telling her he was from the 'Water Board' and needed to check the water pressure.

"She let him in to her house and whilst he said he was checking the kitchen tap, he asked her to check the taps in the bathroom. She then found him in her bedroom, challenged him and he left the house.

"After the man had gone, the woman found around £80 missing from her purse that had been in the living room."

Inspector Chris Thornhill, who is in-charge of policing for South Derbyshire, said: "This is a despicable crime against a vulnerable victim, as such I would ask anyone who recognises the man in the image or knows anything about the incident to make contact with us."

The woman described the man as being white, around 5' 6". He was wearing a black face mask, green waist length jacket, dark blue jeans and blue trainers.

The victim described him as being 'British'.

Inspector Thornhill also had the following advice: "We would urge any householders not to let callers in to their house unless they are expecting them.

"Utility companies will not cold call on customers and even when appointments have been made, are happy to set a password to verify that they are legitimate. We would recommend that a door chain is used until these credentials can be checked.

"My Safer Neighbourhood team for the area has visited the victim and issued her with advice and crime prevention equipment to help her feel more assured."

If you know the man in the image or know anything about this crime please make contact with us using the following non-emergency methods, quoting reference number: 20*339050:

Facebook – send us a private message to /DerbyshireConstabulary

Website – complete the online contact form www.derbyshire.police.uk/Contact-Us.