Police in Hillingdon investigating the theft of a purse from an elderly woman in Uxbridge Town Centre have released CCTV footage in the hope of identifying a woman they are keen to speak to in connection with the incident.

At 1pm on Monday January 18, the victim - a 78-year-old woman - was approached from behind by a woman whilst out shopping. The woman unzipped her handbag and removed her purse which contained £50 in cash.

The woman is described as white, aged between 30 and 40 years old, 5ft 9ins tall and of proportionate build. She was wearing a dark coloured coat and a light coloured hat.

Police Sergeant James Burges, from the Uxbridge Town Centre Team, said: "We are appealing for the public's help to identify the person in this footage. This type of offence can often be much more damaging than it appears and can have a terrible impact on the victim.

"As well as the cash and credit cards we all keep in our wallets, many of us carry pictures of loved ones and other personal items that are not so replaceable. Fortunately, in this case, it was only money that was stolen.

"This kind offence often leaves elderly people especially, with a fear of leaving the house and can result in a complete lack of confidence, which is why I'm particularly keen to identify this person and make sure they face justice for what they have done.

"My team are continuing to carry out both uniformed and plain clothed patrols to deter this type of crime and to identify those involved, and will continue to work hard to keep Uxbridge safe."

Officers from the Uxbridge Town Centre Team in Hillingdon are investigating this incident and would like to speak with anyone who either recognises the suspect, or thinks they saw them anywhere in Uxbridge on Monday January 18.

Any witnesses or anyone with any information can call police in Hillingdon borough via 101, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.