POLICE have renewed their appeal for information following a theft from an elderly woman’s handbag on a Metro train.

British Transport Police say since their appeal for witnesses in December they have had a "great response" from members of the public offering to help and donate money to the 71-year-old victim of Sunderland.

Investigating officer, PC Ian Hancox, said: “Following the media coverage of this theft, a number of kind-hearted people have made donations to the victim via a Just Giving page set up by a member of the public.

"The victim was very touched by people’s generosity and has decided to donate the money to Cancer Research UK."

The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “My late husband died as a result of asbestos-related illness, so this charity is very close to my heart.

"When British Transport Police put out an appeal which was covered by the local press about my stolen money, I soon learned that many readers had made donations to make up the money I had lost.

"This generosity was very warming and really raised my spirits before Christmas."

The theft took place at around 1.10pm on Monday November 14, as the victim was travelling on the Metro with a friend from Pallion to Park Lane, in Sunderland.

When she got to her destination she picked up her shopping bags and accidentally left her handbag on the seat. Two men handed Metro staff the handbag, which was missing about £375. CCTV images show two young men sitting down next to the bag.

  • Anyone with should contact 0800 40 50 40 or text 61016, quoting reference number 170 of 20/12/16.