DETECTIVES have issued a CCTV image of a woman they want to trace in connection with the theft of a wallet in Newton-le-Willows.

A man in his 60s was paying for his goods at the cashpoint in Heron Foods and put his wallet back in his pocket, which dropped to the floor.

The wallet was then picked by a suspect, police say.

CCTV and witness enquiries have been conducted, and detectives have issued a CCTV image of a woman they believe could assist in their investigation.

The incident happened between 1.30pm to 2pm on Friday, October 14.

'Dishonest and callous'

Detective Inspector Jamie Rotheram said: “This was dishonest and callous behaviour where the victim’s wallet fell to the floor, it was then picked up and should have been handed in to staff so it could be returned to the rightful owner.

“Theft of the wallet has caused undue distress to the victim who has not only been left out of pocket, but he has also had to cancel his bank cards and other items in the wallet.

“I am appealing to the woman featured in these images, or anyone who recognises her to come forward.

"We believe she could hold information that could be vital to our continuing enquiries.”

People can also contact @MerPolCC on Twitter, ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook or ring 101 with reference 22000767214.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.