Ludlow OAP burglary victim is helped by police charity (From Ludlow Advertiser)

Ludlow OAP burglary victim is helped by police charity

8:20am Saturday 8th September 2012 in News

A 90-year-old woman from the Ludlow area has received a welcome gift from police after a distraction thief stole savings leaving her struggling to pay bills.

Officers were so concerned about the impact of the burglary, they replaced the stolen money with a donation from their own charity fund.

"The victim was sitting alone in her living room watching television on the day of the offence,” said Police Constable Alan Dean, the investigating officer.

"She went into her kitchen and came face to face with a man who let himself in. He began a conversation and told her he was a council-employed workman fitting radiators.

"He managed to keep her engaged during which time £90 was stolen from her handbag in the living room."

PC Dean said the frail pensioner had to borrow money to buy food and shopping and was struggling to repay the money as she relied on a state pension alone.

He applied to the West Mercia Police Community Fund – a registered charity largely made up of voluntary contributions from officers and staff – for a donation to help her out.

"I was of the opinion a few pounds would make the world of difference to her and the PC Fund trustees came up with £90 to replace the full amount stolen.

"The fund also provided money for aflowers. She is a lovely lady and I know she was very grateful for the support provided," he added.