Purse and cash stolen in Thatcham distraction burglary

Between 12pm on Friday, December 28 and 12pm on Saturday, December 29 the boy talked himself into the Westland house of a 92-year-old woman by saying he was collecting for a school.
The victim left the offender and went into the sitting room to get some money.
During this time, the offender stole her purse and some loose cash.
Det Insp Clare Knibbs from Newbury police station said: “We would urge the public to report any suspicious behaviour and contact us urgently if you have been called upon by anyone claiming to be collecting for school fundraising events or charity.
“We would like to remind people to be cautious when answering the door to people collecting money.
"Please ensure you ask for identification and we would strongly advise not letting them into your home.”
Anyone with information should contact Det Insp Knibbs on the police non-emergency number on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at