WAR HERO CASH THEFT: CCTV IMAGE
War veteran Lionel, 91, had £6,000 in savings stolen from his home
POLICE hunting a burglar who stole a Second World War veteran’s savings have released CCTV images of the suspect.
More than £6,000 was taken from the home of 92-year-old Lionel Lake, at St Catherine’s Farm Court, in Howletts Lane, Ruislip, on the night of April 23.
On Friday, May 29, detectives released images of a man they want to speak to in connection with the offence.
Det Con Tim Costello, of Hillingdon Burglary Squad, said: “Although the victim is 92, he lives a fairly independent life and has spent much of the last few years saving money.
“This money was to leave to his children in the event of his death, as well as some for his bills and dayto-day living.
“We are appealing for anyone who may recognise the man in the CCTV footage. The suspect is a white male; he was wea wearing a dark blue jum jumper with a white pri print on the front, bla black jogging bottoms an and black shoes.”
Members of the pu public were so ho horrified by what ha happened to Mr La Lake that wellw wishers from as far afi afield as New York clubbed together to raise more than £5,000, which was presented to the D Day veteran last month.
Police said the crime was believed to have taken place between the hours of 9pm on April 23 and 1am the following morning, with the burglar thought to have gained entry via an open window.
Anyone with information is asked to call Hillingdon police on 020 8246 1583 or the non-emergency police number 101.
Alternatively, to remain anonymous, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.