A SECOND World War veteran and his wife have had their life savings stolen after burglars smashed into their home.

Thieves smashed a window in the back door of their Parkside, Darlington home yesterday afternoon, Thursday.

Burglars left with £2,000 in cash, between 2pm and 4.20pm.

The victims, a former RAF gunner in his 90s and wife in her late 80s were not in the house at the time.

Inspector Chris Knox, from Darlington Neighbourhood Police Team, said: "This was a despicable crime which has left the elderly couple and their family shaken and distressed.

“After what this man has given to the community, he and his wife should be able to enjoy their later life in peace together.

“I would urge anyone who has any information or anyone who saw anybody acting suspiciously, particularly around the ‘Skinny Bridge’ area, to get in touch.”

Anyone with any information can call Durham Police on 101, quoting incident number 287 of June 8, 2017.