GWENT Police is appealing for information following a distraction theft and attempted theft taking place in Monmouth Town Centre.

On Thursday 28th May 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 Money has since been withdrawn from the victim's account.

The second incident occurred on Wednesday 10th June. 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 40-60 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 ask that anyone with information calls 101 quoting log 265 28/05/15.