A woman who knocked on an elderly man's front door to ask for a drink tried to steal his wallet after he let her into his house.

The 85-year-old discovered what the woman was up to and a struggle broke out at his home on Dalry Road in Edinburgh.

Police say the man was left uninjured but "very distressed" after the incident just before 6pm on Thursday.

The woman was confronted by a neighbour as she fled the flat and made off towards Haymarket. She left empty-handed.

Police are appealing for anyone who may have seen the woman or knows anything about the incident to come forward.

Detective constable Gavin Howat from Corstorphine CID said: "Fortunately the elderly victim was uninjured, but this was a very distressing experience for him and we are pursuing numerous lines of inquiry to trace the suspect.

"I would ask anyone who recognises her description, or has information that can help us identify her, to contact police immediately.

"In addition, anyone who remembers seeing any suspicious activity around Dalry Road on Thursday evening should also get in touch.

"Members of the public are also advised to ensure they only allow people they know and trust access to their homes and if unsure about a caller, do not let them in and call police."

A police spokesman added: "She is described as white, in her late 40s, between 5ft and 5ft 5in tall with a slim build, long dark hair with grey through it that was pulled tightly back over face and a gaunt appearance.

"She was wearing all black clothing. Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, phone the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111."

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