CALLOUS thieves stole an elderly man’s mobility scooter from outside his home, prompting members of the community to come together to try to help.

Les Thorn, 90, of St Mark’s Court, Southchurch Avenue, Southend, is distraught over the loss of his mobility scooter, which has also caused him to lose his independence, as well as his faith in humanity.

He said: “That scooter was my lifeline, I used to go up town to do my shopping or go to the bank with it. At my age it’s a huge worry I don’t need.

“I’m getting taxis now, but it’s so inconvenient. I just can’t manage without it, I’m very frail now and can’t walk very well.

“I am worried if I get a new one it will just get taken again.”

In the hope that Mr Thorn’s faith in humanity could be restored, the caretaker of St. Mark’s Court, Martin, who also lives opposite Mr Thorn, put posters up around the area, detailing what had happened.

Martin said: “Whoever’s taken it has ruined the guy’s life. He can’t even go to the doctor now or go shopping. To do something like this really is the lowest of the low.”

Emily Gibbons, 27, of Rochford, shared the poster on social media and received a huge response, prompting a crowdfunding page to be set up in the hope that enough funds could be raised to buy Mr Thorn a replacement scooter.

Emily said: “When I learnt what happened to this elderly gentleman, I found it heartbreaking because I just thought at that stage in his life to have his independence and freedom taken away is such a horrible thing.

“Since setting up the fundraising page, the support and sponsors from people so far has been overwhelming and really humbling to see how a few people can band together and make a positive difference in the community.

“We are looking at getting help from a mobility scooter shop, and along with the money raised, we want to not only raise enough to replace the scooter, but also purchase some security features such as a lock, to keep it secure and prevent it from being stolen.”

To make a donation towards Les’ new scooter, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/new-mobility-scooter-southend

The appeal has raised £250 already.