'Good Samaritan' steals from woman in wheelchair

A thief posing as a good Samaritan stole a disabled woman's purse as he helped her cross the road in her wheelchair.

Police have released images of a man they want to speak to in connection with the "despicable" offence committed in Blackpool, Lancashire.

The 42-year-old victim was approached by the man at the junction of New South Promenade and Harrow Place in South Shore at about 3pm on Thursday July 7.

A short time later the woman realised her purse was missing from her handbag.

Her bank card was used in several shops in the South Shore area before it was cancelled.

The suspect is described as tanned, with short dark hair and stubble. He was wearing dark clothing and carrying two white carrier bags. He also had a cut eyebrow.

Pc Michelle Nelson, of Blackpool police, said: "The victim is a vulnerable person who was taken advantage of in a despicable and shameful manner.

"We have released images of a man we want to speak to in relation to the offence and I would urge anyone who recognises him to contact police immediately."

Anyone with information should phone police on 101, quoting crime reference WA1610161, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.