POLICE are appealing for witnesses and information after a man posing as a water company official called at the Christchurch home of an elderly lady and stole her handbag.

The man called at the Burton home of the 84-year-old woman at around 7.45pm on Saturday, October 12.

The man claimed to be investigating a problem with the water supply and asked to see the boiler, and while the lady was out of the room he stole her handbag.

The incident took place within an hour of and only miles from another distraction theft involving a 94-year-old lady, who was tricked by two men posing as police officers.

Police Constable Pete Symmons, of Christchurch Police, said: "This is the second time this lady has been the victim of a distraction burglary and she has understandably been left very shaken by her ordeal.

"I would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the Whitehayes Road area on Saturday evening to contact us immediately," he added.

The man is described as medium weight with short dark hair. He was around six feet tall and is in his thirties. The man wore dark clothing and was of neat appearance.

Witnesses or anyone with any other information are urged to contact Christchurch Police on 01202 222915 or call the free anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.