AN 81-year-old woman who was robbed of £200 when she fell over in Burnley received a Christmas boost from Lancashire Telegraph editorial staff.

Margaret Dugdale was just metres from her home in Burdett Street, Burnley, when she fell to the ground after her left knee locked and dropped her handbag.

As Margaret lay helpless a thief stole her bag which contained £200 around 8am on Friday.

But following an appeal by police Miss Dugdale, whose partner Bernard Ingram died 20 years ago, has received numerous donations.

Staff the Lancashire Telegraph donated £125, including a donation from Burnley FC, a reader handed £25 to the police station after hearing about the theft, a Burnley Community group carried out a collection and supermarkets Asda and Sainsbury’s donated food hampers.

Without the help Margaret, who lives with her cat Mandy, would not have been able to buy any Christmas presents or food until her next pension payment on Friday.

Margaret, who has suffered from arthritis since the age of 15, had been on her way to catch a bus into town to have breakfast then do some Christmas shopping.

The retired inspector and packer for the former Prestige manufacturers in Burnley said: “I was shocked I didn’t know what to do. I had planned to catch the bus to have some breakfast then go to the bank and do some Christmas shopping.

“I was surprised when my purse was stolen. I was disgusted. I hope they come forward for what they have done. If they have any decency they should contact the police. They could have spoiled my Christmas.

“After it happened I went back home then 10 minutes later caught the bus into town and went to the police station.”

The pensioner also lost £20 when her purse was stolen in Burnley town centre a few weeks ago.

Margaret added: “I am very pleased with all of the donations and I want to thank everyone. After my bag was stolen I had no money left and would have had no food until Friday when I can get my pension. I didn’t know until now that there are so many kind people.”

DS Charlie Haynes said: “I have had people from across East Lancashire offering to compensate the lady for her loss. Although the impact of this crime has shaken her, the generosity shown by local companies, local groups and individuals has ensured that this lady’s Christmas has not been ruined. Personally, I would like to thank all of those who have contributed, there are far too many to name.

“The local Asda and Sainsbury stores have donated a hamper including gifts and the group, Burnley Past and Present, have raised money for Margaret since the incident was initially reported. It has demonstrated to her that there remain a substantial number of caring people in East lancashire and I wish all of these individuals a Merry Christmas.”

The thief is described as a white man, slim build, possibly in his 20s, wearing a dark hooded top with the hood pulled up.

Police are looking for a second person who was in the area at the time of the incident.

Call DS Charlie Haynes or DC Steve Acres at Pennine CID on 01282 472240. or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.