GWENT Police are seeking help in discovering the identity of a callous couple, who targeted an 84-year-old woman in a distraction theft in Monmouth.

They are also are said to have made another attempt at a theft.

The couple, said to be smartly dressed, stole an 84-year-old woman's purse, while asking for directions after puzzling over a map and appearing to be lost.

Gwent Police said: "We're appealing for information following a distraction theft and attempted theft taking place in Monmouth town centre.

"On May 28 an 84-year-old woman stopped to help a man and woman who were holding a map and appeared to be lost on Drybridge Street.

"While the victim was distracted speaking to the man, the woman entered the victim's car, parked nearby, and stole her purse containing a number of credit cards. Money has since been withdrawn from the victim's bank account.

"The second incident occurred on June 10. A 63-year-old woman was approached on Glendower Street by a woman holding a map and asking for directions. She became suspicious and looked back to her car where she saw a man inside. She recognised the man as someone who had been stood outside a bank she had been to earlier. Nothing was stolen on this occasion.

"The man in both incidents is described as being between 40 and 60 years-old and with a tanned complexion. The female is younger, of slight build, with blonde hair. They both were smartly dressed and spoke limited English."

Officers are investigating these incidents and are asking anyone with information to call 101 quoting log 265 of May 28.