IPSWICH'S spirit of kindness has shone through for the 83-year-old victim of a senseless mugging.

IPSWICH'S spirit of kindness has shone through for the 83-year-old victim of a senseless mugging.

On Thursday she was thrilled to have received a hamper of gifts donated by Paul Clement of Ipswich Central.

Now another warm-hearted gesture is on its way to her Ipswich Hospital bed in the shape of a giant furry teddy bear.

The elderly widow, who has lived in south west Ipswich for the last 40 years, is still recovering after the attack left her with a fractured pelvis, but burger van owner Bob Parry's generous gift should bring a smile to her face.

At around 5.30pm last Monday she was walking home along Halifax Road after a cup of tea with friends when two men crossed over to her side of the road and tried to grab her bag. As one pushed her, she lost her balance and fell to the ground screaming, causing the men to flee towards Montgomery Road empty-handed.

Mr Parry, who owns Lip Smackers burger van in Tower Street, saw The Evening Star's appeal for donations and decided to show his support.

He said: “I saw the bear and thought to myself 'I know of someone who could do with one of those.'

“It's not like it cost a million pounds but it might bring a lot more than it's worth in happiness.

“Now she needs to concentrate on getting well.”

Police would still like to hear from anyone who can help them with their enquiries. Dc Hannah Martin can be reached at Ipswich CID on 01473 613500 or you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Both men involved in the incident are described as black, in their late teens, around 6ft and of thin build. One was wearing grey clothing and the other man had dark clothing on. Both of them had their hoods up.

Have you been a victim of a similar crime? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.

How you can donate your own gift:

If you would like to donate any well wishes or gifts to this lady, you can do it through The Evening Star. Write to the Newsdesk, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk - please make it clear on the envelope or e-mail and put in the subject line that the message is for the robbery victim. Or you can send messages to her by text - start your message ESTAR and send it to 84070.