A THIEF posing as a good samaritan conned a disabled woman into believing he was helping her cross a busy road and stole her pension.

A police spokesman said the 62-year-old woman, who has difficulty walking, was in the Coatsworth Road area of Gateshead on Wednesday morning, where she picked up her pension.

She was approached by the thief, who had been in the Honeysuckle pub.

He offered to help across the road to the bus stop and took hold of her bag - she later noticed her purse was missing.

The suspect is described as being in his mid-20s to early 30s, 5ft 7-9in, with dark wavy hair, a tanned complexion and of medium build. He wore a blue patterned shirt with a blue fleece or cardigan, with blue jeans and brown shoes.

Anyone with information has been asked to call 0191-454 7555 ext 64060