A PENSIONER had her bank card stolen while shopping at Waitrose in Alton.

After paying in the shop using her bank card, the 71 year old made her way to her car in the Station Road store's car park, between 2.20pm and 2.40pm last Wednesday.

As she was loading her shopping a man spoke to her in an Asian accent. He had a £20 note in his hand and wanted to exchange it for two £10 notes. The victim got her purse out but, on looking inside, realised she did not have change. The victim put her purse away and the man walked off to the store.

The victim drove home and then answered a phone call from her bank who informed her that someone had tried to use her card at Sainsbury's in Alton. They had attempted to withdraw £500 but the card had been declined.

The man police want to speak to is described as aged between 40 and 50 and of Asian appearance with tanned skin and short black hair. He is described as around 5ft 8ins, stocky and clean shaven. He spoke with a strong accent and was wearing a large dark jacket and dark trousers.

Pc Dawn Jenks said: "This occurred in broad daylight in a busy public place. Did you see what happened? Do you have any information to help?

"The offender got the victim's PIN by watching her while she was paying for her shopping. Did you see him observing anyone while paying for their shopping?"

Anyone with information should call Pc Jenks at on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.