DETECTIVES investigating a series of thefts have released a photograph of a woman who is allegedly trying to conceal her identity by wearing a black wig and glasses.

The suspect is wanted in connection with a string of purse thefts from care homes across the country.

The woman is suspected of stealing property from care homes in Warrington, Bradwell and Newcastle.

An investigation is currently being carried out by Staffordshire Police after a member of staff's purse was stolen from Rowan Court Care Home in Newcastle on June 26.

Police allege the suspect made a number of fraudulent transactions using the stolen cards in Stoke-on-Trent.

A force spokesman said: "We know she wears a black wig and glasses as a disguise but she has a distinctive tattoo on the side of her right hand.

"If you can identify this woman or have any information, please phone 101 quoting incident number 192 of June 27."