Bogus caller demanded money from woman, 88

Police have issued an urgent appeal to trace the man, who claimed to be delivering a parcel at the victim’s house in Askham Lane, Acomb.

The man was described as white and aged in his 40s.

He was wearing a navy coat and a distinctive woollen hat with bobbles hanging down on either side of ear flaps.

Detectives want to hear from anyone who recognises the man described or saw him in the area at the time of the robbery. Anyone else who answered their door to the man is also urged to contact police.

Det Sgt Mandy Grundy, of York CID, said: “The victim has been left extremely traumatised by this incident and I am urging the public to help us locate the man responsible as soon as possible.”

Although the woman has been left badly shaken, she has not been admitted to hospital.