AN INTRUDER rifling through the home of a 91-year-old woman ran off after he woke her during his search. Police say an untidy search was made of the whole bungalow at Northdown Park Road, Cliftonville, near Margate.

The burglar snatched the pensioner’s bag from beside her as she woke up. It contained £30, band cards and personal papers. Wrapped Christmas presents were also stolen.

The intruder is thought to be aged about 16 with a shaven head. He was wearing dark clothing. A police spokeswoman said: “A few days before Christmas a man and a youth called at the bungalow and said they needed to use the toilet.

"The woman kindly let them in and they later left. We need to eliminate them from our inquiry and ask them to telephone Thanet police immediately on 01843 231055.”