THOUSANDS of pounds was stolen from an elderly woman.

Police are asking for help in identifying two men who are thought to have taken £1,800 from the 73-year-old from Seaford.

She had just finished shopping in Morrisons in the town and had loaded her bags into the boot of her car with her purse.

As she returned her trolley to the trolley bay she was approached by a man who asked if she had any change for the trolley coin slot.

It is thought that at the same time another man went into her car and stole her driving licence and bank card.

Later that day three transactions were made in Brighton, meaning nearly £2,000 was withdrawn from her account. The man who spoke to her is possibly Romanian, in his thirties, 6ft 2in, with short dark hair. He was wearing a grey zip-up hooded top.

PC Jay Denney said: “We would like to remind the public not to leave personal items and items of value unattended. Always ensure vehicles are locked when walking away, even if it’s just for a few moments as was the case in this instance.”

Anyone who recognises either man in the CCTV images should call police on 101.