OAP’s Xmas cash stolen

CRUEL thieves stole an elderly woman’s purse containing hundreds of pounds set aside for Christmas presents – but the community is now rallying around her.

The OAP had withdrawn money from the Post Office in the Abbeygate Shopping Centre and had gone into Joco Interiors to buy some presents.

That is when, according to shop owner Jo Williams, a man and a woman struck.

“The couple followed her in and worked together to get the purse from her bag,” Jo said. “She was so upset.” Keen to restore the OAPs faith in humanity, the businesswoman has launched a fund-raising appeal to help replace the stolen money and bring a smile to the woman’s face.

“When I set up the donations/raffle I just wanted to get her money back to her, but the town as always pulls together and have gone that step further,” Jo said.

“I’ve also received offers of gifts for her too including a hamper and flowers.

“Alan Lawson from Direct Taxis donated £250 and we have received lots of donations in varying amounts up to £50. The money has quickly been replaced but the lady’s confidence has been rocked.”

Donations can be given in the shop until Sunday and there will be a bumper raffle on Saturday. For those living further away or who cannot make it to the shop can donate via PayPal. Send a gift to jocointeriorsuk@gmail. com with the reference ‘restore faith’

Police investigations are ongoing and anyone with any information about the theft, which took place on Wednesday (December 6), should either call 101 or the Crimestoppers hotline, which is free to call from a landline and confidential, on 0800 555 111.