A THIEF stole £10,000 in cash from an elderly woman who had parked to visit an Old Town bank.

The victim parked her vehicle in a disabled bay of the rear car park of Lloyd’s bank in the High Street at around 10.30am on Friday September 2.

But when she went into the bank, a thief smashed the back window of her car and took two handbags which contained many £50 notes and a phone.

Witnesses described a black car, possibly a black Audi A3, leaving at speed. Police are appealing for witnesses to the theft.

PC Sam Burnside said: “This was a despicable crime where a substantial amount of money was stolen. This was money that a woman in her 80s had saved to share with members of her family.

“We would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the theft.

“Fewer people are using cash in their transitions these days, especially £50 notes, so we would also like to hear from anyone who is offered £50 notes for payment.

“As you can imagine, this has had a huge impact on the victim and we would very much like to hear from anyone who can help.”

Anyone who witnessed this or has dashcam footage should call 101 quoting log 54220092833 or call CrimeStoppers on 0800 555111.