A man posing as a member of a church stole a bag containing cash, cards, a mobile phone and passport from an elderly woman.

The thief visited the victim's home in Grotto Road, Margate, on Tuesday between 3pm and 3.25pm.

It was reported he told the woman, who is in her 80s, that he had been sent by a church to provide her with help.

The pensioner went into another room, and on her return, saw the man leaving and realised her bag was missing.

A police spokesman said: "The man was described as white, 5ft 10ins tall and aged in his late 20s or early 30s.

"He reportedly had a scruffy appearance, light ginger hair and was wearing a black hooded top."

Officers are reminding resident to check unexpected visitors are genuine before allowing them into their homes.

The spokesman added: "Ask for identification and make a note of it.

"If you are not certain they are genuine, ask them to come back later so you have time to verify their identity and perhaps ask for a relative or friend to be there on their return."

Police are urging anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area at the time of the burglary is asked to call them on 01843 222289, quoting 46/97368/20, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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