An Oswestry pensioner had money and a treasured photograph of her late husband stolen when she fell victim to what police believe was a distraction burglary.

The victim, who lives in Balmoral Close and is in her 70s, answered the front door at about 3pm on Monday to a white male, who appeared to be in his mid to late teens.

He said he was looking for work and engaged her in conversation for a number of minutes before walking away, potentially towards Buckingham Close.

The victim closed the door and went back inside, and a couple of hours later discovered her purse was missing from her handbag.

It is believed that while the youth distracted her at the front door, an accomplice sneaked into the property through an open patio door at the back and stole the purse, which contained cash, a number of store cards and a photograph of her late husband.

Detective Constable Nick Williams, who is investigating the incident, said the victim was very distressed.

He said: “She is particularly upset over the loss of the photograph in the purse, which held huge sentimental value for her. The clutch-style purse was made of black leather and had the brand ‘Chrissie’s’ stamped on it.”

The youth who knocked on the door is described as being thin, about 5ft tall, with short hair and wearing a red T-shirt and black bottoms. He had a small, black and white dog with him.

Mr Williams said that two youths, including one wearing a red top who had a small dog matching the description, and another wearing a black top and with a mountain bike, were seen in the area at the relevant time.

Call Oswestry CID on 0300 333 3000 with information.