The man stole a small amount of money during one of the incidents in Gosforth.

On Bank Holiday Monday the man called at the home of an 80-year-old woman looking for gardening work.

When she said she was not looking, he stole her purse from the living room. Then on Wednesday he knocked on the door of a 77-year-old woman, saying he was looking for some gardening work.

The man asked to use the toilet but was found rummaging in the living room. He was asked to leave and nothing was taken.

Inspector Ronnie Lowes said: "Neither of the women were threatened in any way but obviously they should not have been contacted like this and we're doing all we can to trace this man.

"I'm advising all residents in the area, but particularly elderly people, to be extra aware of the need not to let anyone in their home unless they know them.

"If in doubt, ask a neighbour for assistance before contacting the police. We will come out as soon as possible."

The man is described as white, aged in his early 20s, between 5ft 4in and 5ft 6in tall of thin build with fair, wavy hair. He had a pale complexion and was clean shaven. On both occasions he was wearing dark jeans and a t-shirt.

House to house enquiries revealed the man had also approached other houses in the surrounding area asking for work.



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