Police are tracing a woman after jewellery belonging to an elderly widow worth hundreds of thousands of pounds was stolen.

Officers wish to speak to Ma Rowena Laysa Manuel, 46, about the theft last year - where high value items including a £250,000 diamond pendant were taken.

Manuel - also known as Nina - was employed as a carer by the family to look after the victim's terminally ill husband.

Following his death, Manuel was asked to stay on for company and paid for general housework.

On April 15, the victim - a woman in her sixties - left her home in St John's Wood but upon her return discovered Manuel had disappeared as well sets of jewellery kept in the house.

These included three items with sentimental value: a butterfly diamond pendant made by her father valued at £250,000; her solitaire diamond engagement ring worth £50,000 (GIA serial number 5171051689) and a pair of two carat solitaire diamond earrings.

The victim's husband left a large gold and silver coin collection worth over £200,000.

These coins were also taken. Some are believed to have been sold in Birmingham while some have been recovered.

DC Nikki Hubbard said: "The victim is totally devastated by the loss. She is still grieving for her husband and the ring was something that felt close to her husband.

"The effect on the victim has been tremendous; she has lost her independence and is in constant fear".

Manuel - who is Filipino - is described as around 5ft 4ins tall and wears a hearing aid.

Anyone with information should contact Westminster's Serious Crime Unit on 07909 706 295, or via 101.

To give information anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.