Renewed appeal to trace man after victim left 'deeply affected' by theft of cash in Wembley

Police have renewed appeals to help trace a man they want to identify after a woman was left 'deeply affected' when cash was stolen from her in Wembley.

The incident happened at around 11:15hrs on Saturday, 28 January as the victim waited to pay in a large quantity of cash at a bank on the High Road.

A man approached her, snatched the envelope containing the cash before fleeing the bank.

Speaking anonymously the woman, aged in her 60s, said: "This theft has affected me deeply; first of all I took out a loan of £6,000 to give back to my partner. He did not ask but to do this but I would feel guilty for the rest of my life if I didn't give him something back, knowing how hard he works and planning for our future. I am now in debt for the next five years.

"This also affected me that now I am a nervous person walking on the street, I don't like anyone coming too close to me, and I hardly take a handbag with me when I am leaving home anymore.

"It was my partner's money, I was going to put it back in the bank on his behalf because he works mostly six days a week and couldn't catch the bank. He withdrew the money to do some business but it didn't work out as planned. This business was to help us retire a little earlier."

PC Joss Stott from the North West Command Unit said: "We are renewing this appeal in the hope that someone recognises the man in this image - if you do, please contact police immediately.

"While the victim was not physically harmed, she is understandably shaken and upset by this brazen theft. I would urge anyone who can help identify this person or can assist the investigation to get in touch."

There have been no arrests and enquiries continue.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or tweet @MetCC and quote CAD2837/22Mar. You can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.