A grinch-like thief stole presents from the under the Christmas tree of a nursing home, Police said yesterday.

The Elder Home Care Services home in Devonshire was burgled at around 1.30 a.m. on Sunday with the thief getting away with several Christmas presents from underneath the home's tree, according to Police.

The caretaker told officers she caught the culprit in the act before he escaped after he gained entry to the premises.

The suspect is described as a black male, of medium build, wearing a hooded top.

Inquiries into this incident are underway.