A disabled boy's independence has been restored due to the generosity of a caring boss.

Eight-year-old David Rhodes was devastated after his electric scooter was stolen when thieves made off with his mum's car.

The scooter and other items were in the boot of the Citroen Picasso when it was taken from the family's home in Clayton at the weekend.

David, pictured, who has muscular dystrophy, had come to rely on the scooter as his only form of mobility.

He was deeply upset when he had to revert back to using his wheelchair.

Mum Eleanor Rhodes said: "The scooter was his only lifeline. It was later found dumped in Great Horton but part of it was missing so David couldn't use it."

Mrs Rhodes contacted Mr Value Mobility, where she had originally purchased the scooter, to order a new part.

Richard Harris, sales manager of the store in Kill-inghall Road, said: "We know Mrs Rhodes very well and were sorry to hear about the theft.

"But we did not realise the full extent of the story until we read it in the Telegraph & Argus."

Staff at Mr Value had read about a fundraising appeal for David to pay the outstanding scooter balance and buy a ramp for the family home.

Mr Harris said: "We couldn't believe that Mrs Rhodes had to physically lift David into the house.

"We were so touched by the appeal that we wanted to help. We have therefore offered to replace the scooter part free of charge and are donating a folding ramp worth £200 which can be transported as easily as a suitcase."

Mrs Rhodes was delighted when she heard the news.

"I'm thrilled," she said. "The store has been more than helpful from the start but this is just amazing.

"It has restored my faith in humanity again."

And Mrs Rhodes received more good news. Police called to say they had found her car abandoned but undamaged.