A one-legged war veteran has been left stranded after his electric invalid scooter was stolen.

Allan Ackroyd is desperate to get it back because it is the only way he can get around.

The 78-year-old, who lives with his wife Betty at Carr Bottom Fold, Bankfoot, had his left leg amputated three years ago because of problems with his arteries.

Since then he has relied on the Town and Country second-hand scooter which he bought for £1,000.

Although he has an artificial leg he cannot walk very far because he also had problems with hardening of the arteries in his right leg which might have to be amputated later.

Mr Ackroyd, who served with the RAF in Egypt during World War Two, said: "I just can't get about at all - I'm completely stuck.

"I used the scooter to go to the shops and to go for a ride around the area to see my friends.

"I blame the people at Westminster for not having the guts to do something about these people who are getting away with murder."

The three-wheeled grey and white scooter had been secured to a wall at the couple's home when it was taken on Sunday night.

Mr Ackroyd said it had already been wrecked once by vandals, which cost him £200 to repair.

He said he cannot face getting another scooter if the missing one is not found in case that is stolen as well.

It is the second time the couple have suffered at the hands of criminals this year. They lost jewellery and £500 in cash when they were burgled in April.

Anyone with information about the theft is asked to contact Odsal police on Bradford (01274) 376662.

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