OAP high and dry after scooter theft

AN independent pensioner is stuck in her home today after thieves made off with her only means of transport.

Elizabeth Stephenson said her legs may as well have been chopped off after her precious mobility scooter, worth £2,000, was stolen, leaving her almost housebound.

The Stowmarket grandmother, who has overcome three strokes and a double-hip operation, said: “I can walk but without my scooter I can't get down to the shops or to see my friends.

“I was absolutely stunned when I saw it had been stolen.

“I had had it for a year and it was lovely because it helped me enjoy myself. I was so happy on it.

“The theft has left me devastated.”

Mrs Stephenson, a former nurse, who lives in Violet Hill Road, said she was disgusted with the thieves who took the electric red Stirling Sapphire ride-on scooter that was left unlocked alongside two others in the porch of her block of flats. The two other scooters, which were both secured, were not taken.

Her daughter, 44-year-old Mandy Stephenson-Wall, said: “I couldn't believe it; people don't realise they're taking more than a bike - it's her means of transport.”

Now Mrs Stephenson will have to buy a new scooter, or face only venturing outside her flat when her daughter visits from Bury St Edmunds.

For now she is hoping that the bike scooter, which was taken between 10pm on Saturday, May 19, and Sunday, May 20, will be returned.

Pc Tina Fairness of Suffolk police said: “These thieves have committed a heartless crime against a vulnerable person who is now unable to leave her flat unaided.

“She was on her way to church when the theft was discovered and has not been able to get there since.

“We do not believe this was meant as a prank as the charger was also taken so the chair could be regularly used.”

Anyone with information about the theft, or who is offered a scooter matching the description, should contact Stowmarket police on 01284 774100 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.