CCTV has captured the moment a handbag was stolen from the homeless persons' unit at Merton Council. 

The handbag had been left on a chair in the waiting area at the Civic Centre in Morden while the victim attended her interview on September 16. 

When she returned, her bag had disappeared.

Wimbledon Times:

Police want to speak to this woman 

CCTV images of the waiting area appear to show a woman picking up the handbag and concealing it within her own bag. 

The woman is described as a white female, between 40 and 50-years-old with slicked back ginger hair. She is of large build and was wearing glasses and dark clothing. 

A spokesman from Merton police said: "Before appeals are released to the public, which we do as a last resort, we try to exhaust all lines of investigation.

"This appeal is also to highlight the fact that you should be aware of your personal belongings at all times."

Anyone who recognises the woman should contact Merton police on 101, quoting reference 232582. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.