Detective say they are not ruling out the possibility that widower George Bridge, who had angina, died as a result of the raid in Howarth, West Yorkshire, in which he was bundled off into a side-room as his home was searched.

The 85-year-old, who served with the RAF during WWII, complained of chest pains immediately afterwards and was rushed to hospital but died just days later in Bradford Royal Infirmary.

Police have now released footage of the burglary at his Mytholmes Lane home on May 2 in which several items were stolen.

The break-in was captured on a camera which officers had installed at the house following an earlier burglary in which money was taken.

The footage shows the burglar wearing a hooded top and distinctive tracksuit bottoms, and officers say they are keeping an open mind as to how many people were involved and whether a was used

Det Supt Chris Thompson, who is leading the investigation, said: "These are the worst kind of criminals - they target the vulnerable and elderly within our community. We need to talk to this individual as a matter of urgency."

Neighbours said Mr Bridge who had three step-children and eight grandchildren was a gentle man who loved gardening and would do anything for anybody.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Incident Room on 01274 373 600 or to call Crimestoppers, anonymously and free of charge, on 0800 555 111.