Caring Lancashire Evening Post readers have clubbed together to cheer up an 84-year-old grandma robbed of her savings in her own home.
Pensioner Betty Marshall, a former canteen worker in the Beech's Chocolates factory in Fletcher Road, Deepdale, Preston, was targeted by a conman who tricked his way into her Ribbleton home by pretending she needed work doing on her roof.
When she went to get the "fee" he followed her into her bedroom and snatched her tin of money.
Betty is already facing a difficult Christmas as she marks the 21st anniversary of her husband Joseph's death. She also lost her only son, Joseph jnr to cancer at the age of 46.
Now a generous lord, who asked to remain anonymous but read her harrowing tale while in Preston on business, has pledged hundreds of pounds to make up for the stolen cash.
Other caring local residents have also donated presents and cash – all of which has been carefully banked by her family to make sure she never falls victim again. She now keep no cash in the house.
Police and neighbours are also keeping a special eye on her.
The grateful pensioner, who had drawn money out to buy her four grandchildren Christmas presents, today said: "Thank you to everyone for their lovely gifts. People have been really kind. So many people have shown their support.
"I'm going to make the best of Christmas as I can."
She added: "The police have been really helpful and supportive.
"And the community and all my family and friends were too."
A merchant navy captain who read the appeal on the LEP website has also offered a £100 reward for information that leads to the thug's arrest.
Captain Martin Weaver, who lives in Deepdale when he isn't at sea on his tugboat Tenax, said: "We don't want someone like this walking the streets of Preston."
Meanwhile, staff at Beech's Chocolates have given their former colleague several boxes of goodies to help cheer her up.
Det Insp Dave McKenna added: "We are very grateful for the generosity of the public. It has made a significant difference to Betty and has raised her spirits. We still urge anyone with information to come forward."
Police will also be keeping an extra eye on her home in the run-up to Christmas.
Anyone with information can 01772 203203.
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