A THIEF stole cash from a pensioner's bank account after he dropped his wallet on a bus in Prestwich.

At about 2pm on Thursday November 21, an 84-year-old man was on the 315 bus heading towards the Prestwich area when he dropped it.

A man then picked up the wallet and did not return it.

The thief then went to the Post Office in Bury Old Road, Broughton, and withdrew cash.

The bank card was also later used on a number of occasions until the card was cancelled.

Police have now issued a CCTV image of a man they want to speak to.

PC Carrie Fitzpatrick, of Whitefield Police, said: "The victim did not know he had dropped his wallet and only realised money was being taken out of his account a few days later.

"This is a despicable crime on a vulnerable member of our community.

"I believe the majority of people who saw someone drop their wallet or purse would pick it up and return it to the owner. However, this man thought he would take advantage.

"I would ask anyone who may recognise the person in the image to come forward. The information you supply will remain strictly confidential."

Anyone with information should phone police on 0161 856 8204 and quote crime reference 173970D/13 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.