Elderly woman targeted in Bedford burglary

Detectives are investigating after a woman in her 80s was the victim of a burglary in Bedford yesterday (Wednesday).

At around 9am, a man forced his way into the property on Waveney Avenue, and knocked the woman to the floor, before leaving the house with her purse, which contained a quantity of cash and her bank cards.

The victim required assistance from the ambulance service, but was not injured.

The offender is described as a tall, slim white man, with a pale complexion and dishevelled clothing.

Detective Constable David Pawelek, from Bedfordshire Police’s Crime Investigation Team, said: “Targeting our community’s most vulnerable is appalling.

“We are doing all we can to investigate this incident and safeguard the victim, who was left badly shocked.

“If you were in the area and saw this man, or have found a small black purse discarded, please do get in touch.”

Detectives are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch via the online reporting centre, www.bedfordshire.police.uk/report, quoting reference 40/40706/20.