Police have branded as "despicable" a crime in which a teenage girl conned her way into the home of a blind 95-year-old and stole his watch and an antique glass.

The caller, who claimed to be selling dusters, tricked her way into the widower's home in Scaynes Hill, near Haywards Heath before stealing his property.

Inspector Roy Apps, of Mid Sussex district police, said: "I think this was a despicable crime committed against a vulnerable member of the community.

"I would urge anyone who has contact with duster sellers in the area to contact police as there may be others operating.

"Of course, not all door-to-door callers are criminals, but we always advise people not to do business on their doorstep and not to open the door to someone unless they are expected."

Police are appealing for anyone with information to get in contact.

The teenage thief was between 14 and 20 with shoulder length blond hair, a pale complexion, a soft southern accent and wore dark clothing. She carried a dark holdall when she struck, at about 1pm on Wednesday March 5.

Witnesses should call Detective Constable Graham Bannatyne at Haywards Heath on 0845 6070999.

A 15-year-old girl has been arrested in connection with a distraction burglary and released on police bail until April 2.