A KIND hearted businessman has stepped in to help a disabled woman who was left devastated after her mobility scooter was stolen.

Tony Corrigan read about the break in at Olive Cribbin’s shed in the Consett Advertiser.

Thieves targeted the shed at her former home at Bradley Bungalows, Leadgate, near Consett, before she had the chance to retrieve her scooter.

Mr Corrigan, 46, who lives at Shotley Bridge, and is a director of Tonik Mobility, on Medomsley Road, Consett, said: "Pinching a mobility scooter is such an underhand thing to do and whoever did it should be ashamed of themselves, but fortunately we are in a position to help.

"We want to be able to spread a bit of good will within the community."

The 59-year-old former nurse and social worker, who has now moved to Medomsley, was presented with the Pride Go-Go Traveller Plus at her home yesterday. (wed) Mrs Cribbin, who suffers from spondylosis of the spine, said: "This is an incredible gift and I am so grateful. He has given me a lifeline.

"We have got a real angel here."

Police are still investigating the break in and anyone with information is asked to call 0345-60-60365.