POLICE are appealing for witnesses and information after a theft at Ampleforth Abbey near Helmsley.

The incident occurred around 6.30pm on October 10 while the victim was attending choir practice.

The victim left her purse in a handbag on one of the church pews for the duration of the session and on checking it the next morning, it was discovered that the purse and its contents had been stolen.

Subsequent enquiries have identified a man who was in the Abbey at the time of the offence, who may be able to help with the investigation.

He is described as being white, about 5ft 8ins tall of medium build with brown curly hair covering his ears. He was wearing thick glasses and spoke with a slight American or Canadian accent. He had in his possession a push bike that had white and red mud guards as well as panniers on both front and rear tyres.

The man is believed to have been travelling around the country and could now possibly be in or around the London and the South East area.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation sis asked to conbtact police on 101, select option two and ask for Liam Cromack or email liam.cromack456@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk

To remain anonymous, pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.