An elderly woman stood up to a would-be thief who attempted to force his way into her home to rob her.
The 79-year-old pensioner, from the Borders, refused to follow the man’s demands and he left empty-handed.
The attempted robbery happened in Smiths Wynd, Jedburgh, at around 3.20pm on Thursday.
The woman was sitting at the rear of her house when the conman, who was dressed as a delivery driver, approached and asked her to take a parcel for her neighbour.
He then tried to physically force her into her home and demanded money.
When she refused, he made off on Queen Street in a northbound direction.
The suspect is believed to be around 5ft 8in and aged in his 50s or 60s.
He was wearing a yellow high-visibility vest, a black top, black trousers, a dark beanie-style hat and a medical style face mask.
Officers are appealing for information and anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage that may be able to help the investigation.
Detective constable Sandy Blacklock said: “This was a despicable attempt to rob a lady who was sitting outside at her property.
“Fortunately she was able to stand her ground and push the man away. Although not physically hurt, this has left her feeling very upset.
“The man approached from the Queen Street area of the town and left in the same direction.
“His appearance was quite distinctive and we are appealing to anyone who saw him to get in touch.
“Anyone who was driving in the area at the time and who may have dashcam footage that can assist with our enquiries is also asked to get in touch.
“Likewise, anyone with CCTV that may show something is requested to make contact with officers.”
If you have any information, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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