Benefactors give back stolen cash

A group of businessmen have clubbed together to raise £1,300 stolen from a disabled woman in Surrey by a conman.

A man posing as a gardener took the cash from the woman's home in Longbourne Green, Farncombe, after calling at the house asking for work.

The victim, who has a terminally ill husband and a disabled son, was saving the money for a holiday at Butlins.

A local businessman, who wants to remain anonymous, collected £1,300, which was handed over by Surrey Police.

'Make a difference'

Neighbourhood officer Pc Jim Lavery took a cheque to the woman last week.

"This is one of the most generous acts I have witnessed in my time as a neighbourhood officer," he said.

"This gift will really make a difference and allow the family to enjoy a well deserved holiday."

Police are still investigating the burglary on 23 May.

The bogus gardener was described as white, approximately 5ft 7ins (1.7m) tall, of medium build with black hair and a tanned complexion.

He was said to be wearing a light coloured shirt and dark blue jeans, and driving a white transit van.