POLICE are trying to trace a man in connection with the theft of a woman's handbag.

The bag, which contained bank cards and tobacco, is alleged to have been stolen in the Hylton Road area of Sunderland on November 1 last year.

Police have now issued an appeal to try and trace a man in connection to the incident, which happened at about 10.15pm.

Following the theft, one of the cards was used a short time later, on the same evening, in Uncle Sam's convenience store, on St Luke's Terrace. 

Officers want to the speak to the man, who was in the shop at the time that the card was used and may have information that could assist police. 

The man, or anyone who recognises him, is asked to call 101 quoting reference 1356 011119 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.