A WOMAN of 91 discovered cash missing from her home after a caller pretended he had brought her a food hamper from a major supermarket.

The pensioner found £90 missing after the trickster called at her door in Whitstable at about 11am on Wednesday, April 18.

He said she had been selected to receive the hamper and went though the contents with her. He then asked to use the toilet and left, taking the basket with him.

The following day the woman found the money missing. Her daughter reported it to police.

The man is described as being in his 50s, of stocky build and with grey hair. He was wearing a light-coloured suit.

Det Insp Nick Gossett said: “It is particular nasty when you come across this offence where a thief steals from an elderly person after tricking their way into a house.”

Detectives are urging people to be on their guard as they say the trickster has struck on at least one other occasion.

A 59-year-old woman in Herne Bay discovered £110 missing from her purse and a small safe, containing cash and bank books, had gone after a man turned up and told her the same story.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det Sgt Jeff Vincett on 01227 868357 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111. Calls to Crimestoppers are free and you do not have to give your name.