POLICE are seeking information after an attempted burglary took place at 8.45pm on Wednesday, September 11, at a property in the Greenway area of Crediton.

A male suspect gained entry to the property via an insecure balcony door.

The homeowner, who is an elderly female, disturbed the man who fled stealing her purse.

The suspect is described as being a white male, late teens to early 20s, 5 feet 10 inches tall, slim build with short dark hair.

He was wearing a dark colour top with a white shirt underneath and dark trousers.

Crediton Police Sgt Dave MacFadden, said:

"This is a deplorable and despicable crime committed against an elderly resident who is vulnerable due to her age.

"I would call upon the local community in Crediton to help catch this criminal by asking them to contact us with any information they have that might lead to his identification.

Enquiries are continuing but all information would be gratefully received.

He added: "When I see this type of crime being committed against vulnerable victims it makes me more determined to catch those criminals who obviously believe it is acceptable to steal from what was obviously an elderly person's home".

Police are reminding local residents to ensure they secure all doors and windows to rooms that they are not in to try and stop these opportunist thefts occurring.

If anybody has information on this offence please make contact with Crediton Police on the national non emergency telephone number 101 or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, which is free and anonymous.

Please quote crime reference KC/13/713.