A FRAUDSTER stole nearly £13,000 from an elderly neighbour she befriended by forging his signature on his cheques.

Vicky Wilson, 42, from Bilsham Road, paid herself £12,850 over several months from the 94-year-old man she lived next to on a caravan site.

She used the money to help pay her debts and other expenses.

But her crimes were discovered when a welfare worker helping the victim go through his bank statements came across the unauthorised payments.

Wilson admitted her crimes when interviewed by police and on Thursday (July 2), at Chichester Crown Court, was jailed for 12 months having admitted fraud by false representation.

Detective Constable Paul Gilmour said: "It was a despicable thing to do, especially to such a vulnerable man."

The bank has refunded the money to the victim's account.

DC Gilmour added: "This case serves as a reminder to us all - ensure that you have a good grip on your affairs and, if necessary, get independent and qualified advice and support, whether from your bank or from another reputable source."