A bogus researcher stole electronics and cash from a flat after claiming to be from a youth project.

The man called at the door to a flat in Bloomsbury Place, St George’s Road, Brighton, and asked the occupier a series of questions at about 7.30am on Monday.

Between half-an-hour and an hour later he returned and managed to get into the flat, threatening the woman living there before stealing a camera, cash, bank cards and a laptop.

He placed the items in a black rucksack bearing the logo ‘Speach Radio 4’.

The suspect is a black, 5' 10", in his early 30s, and with a dark beard on the underside of his chin. He was wearing a grey hooded top and dark jacket.

Detective Constable Sarah Townsend, of Brighton CID, said: " If you live in the St George's Road are and had a man knock on your door early on Monday morning, or you are able to provide information abouut this or any similar incident that's happened recently, please get in touch."

Anyone able to help should email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or phone 101, quoting serial 459 of 23/3. Alternatively they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers without having to leave a name on 0800 555 111.