A string of elderly people have been targeted in callous street robberies in Tulse Hill and West Norwood.

Police believe just one robber could be responsible for the thefts, and are warning the elderly to stay alert.

The most recent incident saw a robber, a black man aged between 23 and 30, snatch an 80-year-old woman’s handbag in Lansdowne Hill at 2.35pm on September 10.

On September 9, a 75-year-old woman had her handbag stolen in Probyn Road at about 7.40pm.

The robber was described as black, aged about 30, 5ft 6in, wearing a dark shirt, white trousers and a white hat.

A 70-year-old man had has his briefcase stolen as he walked near Robson Road on Monday, August 16, at about 9.10pm.

Safer neighbourhood inspector Nick Fallowfield said: “It is possible this is the work of just one person.

“If anyone has any suspicions as to whom this suspect is then please get in touch.

“Furthermore, I urge our elderly community to be aware of their surroundings and to call police if they think a potential suspect is approaching them.

“In addition, do seek the assistance from other members of the public and call loudly for ‘help’.”

Last month, a terminally-ill man was thrown from his wheelchair in Lakeview Road by callous robbers who held a knife to his throat as they stole just £2.

Anyone with information should call Lambeth police’s robbery squad on 0208 649 2439 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.