Detectives have released an e-fit of a man they would like to speak to in connection with a distraction theft.

At about 10pm on June 7 an unknown caller knocked on the door of a property in London Road, Newington, and told the elderly homeowner someone had been detained in the garden after they had tried to break in.

The victim looked but no one was there.

The cold caller then asked him to check if any money had been stolen.

After finding his wallet, the pensioner noticed a purse containing £40 was missing.

After the offender left, the victim noticed his wallet, which contained the same amount of cash, was also gone.

The suspect is described as white, aged late 20s, about 5ft 10in, of slim build, smooth shaven and with short spikey black hair. He was wearing a black tracksuit and shirt.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Richard Allingham on 01795 419264 quoting XY/020148/14.