A good Samaritan has come forward to help a pensioner too afraid to go out because she was robbed of her week's money.

A mystery man has given the 77-year-old victim a substantial amount of cash to make up for the money taken.

He decided on the generous act after reading how the woman was terrified and distraught after a teenage girl stole her purse as she came out of the Co-op supermarket at Greenstead on Sunday at 11.30am.

The man has declined to be named but police have praised his thoughtfulness.

PC Eric Turnbull, of Colchester police, said: "It was very community-spirited of him. The woman was extremely grateful. She is still very upset and I think it will take her some time to get over it but this has given her some encouragement."

Anyone who knows the thief, a teenage girl, 6ft tall with short black or brown hair should contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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