A 94-year-old woman was targeted by a bogus care worker.

The victim invited the man into her home in Langsdale Avenue, Chichester, at about midday on Wednesday.

The man asked for money, watched where the victim went to get the cash, then distracted her and stole what was left.

Detective Constable David Midgley said: “Taking advantage of a vulnerable elderly woman is deplorable.”

He urged residents to use the door chain and thoroughly read and verify their identification.

The man was white, short and of average build. Police are conducting house-to-house inquiries and forensic examinations.

Anyone with information should call Sussex Police on 0845 6070999, quoting serial 1016 of January 26 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.