KIND-HEARTED builders have brought some Christmas cheer to the life of a pensioner, whose purse was stolen as she was shopping.

Murial Jefferson, 74, was outside Argos, in Bishopton Lane, Stockton, at 4pm on Thursday, when she was approached from behind by a youth, who stole a blue purse and £60 from her handbag.

She was taken to hospital and treated for shock, before returning to her Stockton home.

Builders working on the Wellington Square shopping centre saw the attack.

They were so upset by the mugging that they had a whip-round, and raised £260 which they presented to Mrs Jefferson yesterday.

Detective Constable Simon Rowny is eager to speak to anyone who saw the theft, especially two youths, one wearing a cream woolly hat, seen outside Argos at the time.

He said: "This was a despicable crime on a very frail lady, who could not defend herself.

"Anyone with information should call Stockton police."

The youth who stole the purse is described as 17, 5ft 5in, thin, wearing dark clothing and white shoes.

Stockton police can be contacted on (01325) 326326