Man claiming to be window cleaner steals money from woman, 92, in Hartlepool street

It happened in Masefield Road in the town on Friday, June 22, when a man on a bicycle with a ladder attached to it visited the woman's home claiming to be a window cleaner.

He asked the pensioner for money, suggesting it was change for a neighbour.

The woman handed over the cash and the man then made off towards Catcote Road.

Officers are now appealing for any witnesses to the theft to come forward.

A spokeswoman for Cleveland Police said: "Police are appealing for information after a 92-year-old woman had money stolen from her at a property on Masefield Road in Hartlepool.

"The incident occurred at 2pm on Friday, June 22, when a man attended the property on a pedal cycle with a ladder attached to it claiming to be a window cleaner.

"The man asked the victim for money and suggested it was for change for a neighbour.

"The victim handed over the money and the man left and made off in the direction of Catcote Road.

"He is described as being a white male in his 20s.

"Anyone with CCTV footage of the area at the time of the incident or anyone with information regarding the man responsible is asked to contact PC Ian Hutchinson quoting event number 112292.

"Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org."