AN elderly lady had her suitcase stolen from a railway station in the North East after leaving it on a platform.

Officers from British Transport Police (BTP) have released a CCTV image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident, which took place on December 17 at Sunderland train station.

The 73-year-old had asked a couple to look after her suitcase while she went to the toilet, but when they had to get on their train, it is believed a man took it and left with it on the Metro.

PC Michael Proudfoot, who is investigating the incident, said: “The victim, who is from Sunderland, was waiting on the platform to catch a train to London to see her friend around 9.30am.

“She asked a couple who were also waiting on the platform to keep an eye on her suitcase while she used the toilet. Unfortunately, the train arrived and the couple boarded the service, leaving her suitcase to one side on the platform.

“On returning, the woman discovered her suitcase, which contained her medication, was gone.”

Police have identified a man they want to speak to in connection with the incident. PC Proudfoot said: “We believe that the suitcase was taken by a man who then boarded a Metro train to Milfield. If you know the man pictured, or his whereabouts, then please get in touch.”

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40 quoting the reference B3/NEA of 02/01/2013. They can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Issuing advice to passengers, PC Proudfoot added: “We take the theft of passenger property extremely seriously and one of our primary policing objectives is to reduce the number of people who become a victim. Always keep your belongings close by and check them regularly whilst on the train and at stations.”

We believe that the suitcase was taken by a man who then boarded a Metro train to Milfield