A FIRM has stepped in to replace two prized mobility scooters cruelly stolen from two elderly friends.

Thieves broke locks and smashed into a shed behind sheltered housing in Idle Road, Bradford, last week to take scooters belonging to Winnie Aldrich, 74, and Ken Brown, 83.

The machines, bought for a combined total of more than £1,000, were later recovered, but had been taken apart and suffered damage to the electrics.

After hearing of their plight, Jack Leyland, of Guiseley Mobility in Oxford Road, Guiseley, contacted the Telegraph & Argus to offer two new scooters complete with a year’s insurance.

The scooters were delivered to the thrilled pair yesterday, who immediately gave them a test run together.

Mr Leyland said: “”It’s shocking that anyone would even consider stealing a mobility scooter from an elderly person these days, but such are the times sadly. We’ve been around for 16 years and it is becoming more and more frequent. In the last four or five years, it’s been rife, so people should really insure them if they can.

“We can’t afford to make a gesture like this every week, but it’s nice to be able to do it, especially at this time of year. We live locally and you can see it’s appreciated, so it’s a pleasure to help.”

Twin brothers Craig and David Marshall, 24, had also contacted the T&A to give their help, offering to try to fix the damaged scooters. The pair work on repairing scooters in their spare time and had offered their services free of charge.

Housing and Care 21, based at Scarbrough Court in Cullingworth, had also got in touch offering to give a scooter.

Christine Chorley and Hayley Brown, Mr Brown’s daughter and granddaughter, said he was “chuffed” when he heard about Guiseley Mobility’s offer.

“He was devastated when his scooter was stolen,” said Mrs Chorley.

“Dad has always been active and the scooter was his independence and his way of getting around.

“He was really chuffed when he found out about the new scooter, he was ringing everybody to tell them.

“It’s nice to know there are good people out there to help with something like this.”

After taking the scooters for a quick test drive, Mrs Aldrich said: “They’re very nice.

“We couldn’t have afforded to buy them again. It will be a pleasure to get out and about again.

“It was a nice surprise, we were very excited. It was a really nice thing to do, and proves there’s still some kind people about.

“It’s a lovely present for Christmas.”

Anyone with information on the thefts should contact the Bradford East Area Neighbourhood Team on 101, quoting crime reference 13160711200.

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