A mystery donor from Stevenage has brought some Christmas cheer to a pensioner who had a large amount of money stolen – after reading about her plight in the Comet.

The Comet: Police would like to speak to this man in connection with the theft.Police would like to speak to this man in connection with the theft. (Image: Archant)

An 80-year-old woman had withdrawn hundreds of pounds from a cash point outside Barclays Bank in Stevenage town centre on November 12 as she prepared for Christmas.

But after going into the nearby Marks and Spencer store, the victim – who has asked to remain anonymous – realised the money was no longer in her bag.

Reading the story published in the Comet on December 18 as part of a police appeal, a good Samaritan dropped off a hamper full of goodies and £200 in cash at Stevenage Police Station for the victim.

PCSO Ron Treadwell from the Stevenage Safer Neighbourhood Team said: “This was such a lovely gesture by a very kind resident. To be the victim of crime at any time of year is awful, but to take money meant for Christmas presents is especially cruel.

“We would like to thank the mystery donor on behalf of Hertfordshire Constabulary and the victim, who was clearly moved by such a generous gesture.”

A CCTV image of a man police would like to speak to in connection with the theft was released as part of the witness appeal, but as yet nobody has been arrested or charged.

If you have information about the crime call police on non-emergency number 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.