Italy 'adopted grandad' runs away

The Riva family said they were touched by Mr Angelozzi's ad

The story of a lonely Italian pensioner "adopted" by a family last year warmed hearts around the world. But the tale has since seriously soured.

Giorgio Angelozzi moved in with the Riva family last year after placing an ad offering his services as a grandad.

But last month he left, saying he was going to Rome. According to the Rivas, he in fact went to another family where he stole cheques to cover his debts.

He has reportedly now been found in a retirement home, and denies stealing.

Italian officials said the 80-year-old turned up at the home near Milan last week with no money. He is currently being questioned by police.

'Dead wife's voice'

Mr Angelozzi, a retired teacher, placed an advert in a newspaper last year seeking a family who would adopt him as a grandfather.

People were moved by Mr Angelozzi's story of losing his wife and finding the loneliness unbearable after a lifetime in the classroom, and his plea prompted replies from as far away as Colombia.

I would say it's more than sad, it's a letdown Elio Riva

He accepted an offer in September from Elio and Marlena Riva, who live with their two teenage children in Spirano, near the town of Bergamo.

He said Marlena's voice reminded him of that of his dead wife.

But last month he left his new home, saying he was going to Rome, Elio Riva said.

Instead he visited another family in Arquata, in the neighbouring region of Piedmont, Mr Riva told the Associated Press news agency.

There he stole cheques, using them to pay 3,000 euros to the Riva family for expenses and a 2,500-euro dentist's bill, the father alleged.

He met the family for the last time 10 days ago to hand over the cheques.

"We had no suspicions. We took him to be a completely normal person," Mr Riva.

"I would say it's more than sad, it's a letdown."