A THIEF pretended to be an electricity worker to trick his way into the home of a vulnerable pensioner and steal hundreds of pounds.

Police said a man tricked his way into the home of a 76-year-old by pretending he worked for Seeboard and needed to check the electricity meter.

Once inside the home in Cowley Drive, Woodingdean, he is said to have convinced the victim he could save him money in exchange for £700, before distracting the pensioner and stealing a purse containing hundreds of pounds.

Officers say the incident happened at about 8pm on Thursday March 19.

The suspect is described as white, 35 to 40 and about 5'7" with brown hair.

He was wearing a beige anorak and was carrying a clipboard. An efit of him has been produced (pictured).

Detective Constable Vanessa Sheehan said: "The offender clearly identified that the victim was vulnerable and decided to take advantage of this to steal hundreds of pounds.

"The victim is understandably very upset at what has happened and we are determined to find who was responsible.

"If you have seen someone acting suspiciously in the Cowley Drive area who fits the description of the thief, or recognise the face in the efit, please contact us urgently."

Email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk quoting serial 1467 of 19/03, call 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.