A thief posing as a member of staff collected donations from people visiting Salisbury Cathedral.

Wiltshire Police said they are investigating the incident, which happened about 3pm on February 15.

The man walked into the cathedral and sat at the donations desk which is out of bounds to the public.

He then called people over to make donations before making off with the cash after being challenged by a member of staff.

Police said he was seen cycling off towards the Harnham Gate.

He is described as in his mid 20s, with black collar length hair and he was wearing dark clothing.

George Moncrieff, criminal justice investigator said: “We believe that there may be members of the public who were deceived by this man and genuinely thought that this was a legitimate collection who haven’t yet come forward.

"I would like to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time or who can provide any information on this incident.”

Anyone with relevant information should call Mr Moncrieff on 0845 408 7000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.