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Family of dying pensioner whose purse was stolen urge thief to give himself up

The family of a pensioner whose purse was stolen as she lay dying on a road have urged the thief ...
Newstalk
Newstalk

14.51 8 Feb 2015


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Family of dying pensioner whos...

Family of dying pensioner whose purse was stolen urge thief to give himself up

Newstalk
Newstalk

14.51 8 Feb 2015


Share this article


The family of a pensioner whose purse was stolen as she lay dying on a road have urged the thief to give himself up.

Irene Ditcher, 82, was hit by a lorry in Leigh, Greater Manchester, on Wednesday.

When police arrived they found her dead at the scene, and witnesses reported seeing a man steal her purse before fleeing.

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Police have described the theft from Ms Ditcher as a "disgusting" crime.

In a statement through police, Ms Ditcher's nephew and niece said: "We cannot believe that someone has done this to our auntie. We are absolutely disgusted by this person's actions. Had Auntie Irene been alive she would have given them the money if they'd asked.

"We just hope their conscience gets the better of them and they hand themselves in to the police," they added.

They said they wanted to thank the public for the kindness shown over their loss.

Detective Sergeant Neil Lawless said: "This is one of the most disgusting crimes I have ever investigated and I find it hard to believe someone could stoop so low to commit such a horrific offence.

"This man has taken what he sees as an easy opportunity by stealing a purse from a dying woman. I am sure the community will be equally disgusted and I appeal to anyone who may have seen this man take the purse and walk off on Leigh Road.

"There are a number of rumours circulating on social media at the moment but I would like to reassure residents we are doing all we can to find out who is responsible. However, for us to do so, we need your help.

"If you have any information, no matter how insignificant you think it may be, please call us as soon as possible," he added.

The man is described as white, 6ft, aged between 30 and 40, medium build, with a dark brown beard, wearing a light grey hooded top with the hood up, light blue jeans and black boot-style training shoes.

Originally published at 14.48


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