POLICE have launched an appeal after an elderly couple - in their 80s and 90s - were targeted by burglars.

The couple heard knocking at the front door of their home in from Byron Road, Thornhill, yesterday and then found an unknown man in the house going through their cupboards.

Officers say they asked him what he was doing before he fled the house with a purse containing bank cards and cash.

The incident happened at around 2pm.

The suspect is described as a white man, in his 30s, between 5ft 9ins and 6ft tall and slim build.

He had a shaved head which looked like he had no hair at all. He was wearing a dark navy blue zip-up top and blue jeans.

Officers would like to hear from anyone who was in the area of Byron Road at the time and saw anyone acting suspiciously or any suspicious vehicles.

Police would also like to hear from anyone who received a call from someone suspicious at their home.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Martin Brewer at Southampton Central police station on 101 or the anonymous Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555111.