Police are hoping an elderly man may be able to help them catch two thieves who snatched shopping - including a Sony Play Station - from a sick shopper.

The man helped a 24-year-old woman who took ill and collapsed in Waarden Road, Canvey Island, at about 4pm yesterday.

When she came round, she found that her shopping including a Play Station and videos, and £100 was missing.

The man said he saw two boys running off with her shopping bags.

Police now want to trace the man, who they say may be able to provide them with a description of the boys.

They said the woman did not need hospital treatment. Anyone with information should ring PC Wendy Eydman on 01268 511212.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.