A 91-year-old woman suffering from dementia was robbed of more than £10,000 from her hospital bed just weeks before she died.

Mary Banks was bedridden when her purse was stolen from Peterborough City Hospital in September.

Her bank card was then used to fraudulently withdraw cash, pay for clothes and buy groceries.

The card was reported stolen on Friday, October 12, four days after Mary died.

Jim Banks, Mary’s son, said: “My mother was suffering from dementia, was immobile and had severe breathing problems when her purse was stolen as she lay in bed.

“She would have been completely unaware of where she was let alone that she was being robbed by a despicable and immoral individual who has preyed on the sick and vulnerable.

“She died within four weeks of being robbed. It defies belief that anybody could stoop so low and I am appealing for the public’s help in catching whoever is responsible so that no other family has to face a similar heartache.”

Cambridgeshire Police have released CCTV images of a woman they would like to speak to in connection with the fraud of more than £10,000.

PC Lewis Busby said: “I would urge anyone with information about this crime to contact us or who thinks they know the woman in the CCTV.

“My thoughts go with the family who are dealing with the loss of their loved one and now have to deal with this alongside it.”

Anyone who recognises the woman pictured or has any information is asked to call police on 101 quoting 35/36955/18.

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org.