NORTH Yorkshire Police have released an appeal for witnesses and information after a Post Office card was stolen from the house of an elderly man.

According to police, the theft happened on Wednesday, January 18 between 6pm and 7pm.

A man in his 80s was followed as he walked from his friend’s house on Helredale Road, Whitby to his home address on Corners Terrace, Whitby.

A car drew alongside him and the driver engaged him in conversation whilst on Church Street before parking outside The Fleece public house - also on Church Street.

The police appeal goes on to say that the suspect got out of his car stating that he wanted to borrow £15 to buy his mother some groceries, telling the elderly man that his mother was an acquaintance of his.

The elderly man invited the suspect into his home where he was distracted and his Post Office ‘cash card’ was taken from his wallet.

Police are appealing for any information to assist in identifying the man in question.

In particular they are appealing for anyone who was passing by at the time who saw the two men talking on Church Street, Whitby or can provide details regarding a white/grey vehicle parked outside The Fleece public house Church Street, Whitby to get in touch.

Anyone with information can contact them on 101, select option 2, and ask for Mike Cope.

You can also email michael.cope@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.

Information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Quote the North Yorkshire Police reference number 12170013848.