A GUILT-ridden thief who stole a bird bath returned to the scene of the crime to leave an apology – but still hasn’t come clean.

The large stone piece was stolen from a back garden on Hawkshead Court, Newcastle between 7pm on Tuesday, April 14 and 8am the next day.

The theft left the victim, an 82-year-old woman, devastated and Northumbria Police issued a public appeal for information in hope of returning her garden ornament.

The thief has not yet been caught – but has been back to the scene to leave an apology note written on a piece of cardboard on the victim’s doorstep.

The letter says: “I am so very sorry. I wouldn’t in a million years have done this but I had to.

“It is my mother’s birthday and I am in a very bad place. I can’t afford a birthday present and she doesn’t know how bad it is.

“With deep regrets, sorry. This is all I can think of I am so very sorry. When I can afford it I will replace it.”

PC Christopher Dorman has urged the thief give himself up.

“It’s clear that the offender feels guilty about his actions and I would urge him to come forward and contact police so we can reunite the bird bath with its owner.

“Similarly, if you have recently received a birthday present that matches the description of the bird bath taken from this vulnerable victim’s garden then please get in touch.”

In a return letter to the thief, his elderly victim wrote: “I loved watching the antics of the birds.

“I can understand that this man’s appreciation of his mother makes him feel it is so important to give her a birthday present.

“What he doesn’t understand is the shock and deep disappointment she would feel if she knew that he has become a thief in his desire to please her.”

The bird bath is three feet tall, stone in a Pompeii ash colour, with a wide basin at the top and a bulbus stem. There is an acanthus leaf patter up the stem.

Anyone with information is asked to call Northumbria Police on 101, extension 69191, quoting reference 0221 15/04/15 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555-111.