Widow appeals for safe return of husband's photograph

A 75-YEAR-old widow has appealed for the safe return of one of the last photographs taken of her husband who died four years ago, which was taken during a break-in to her home on Friday evening.

Photographs of a great sentimental value as well a mobile phone, cheque book, bank cards, a driving licence and 15 in cash were taken when thieves stole the woman's handbag while she was out working in her garden at Hart Terrace in Culcavey.

The woman was just eight feet from the back door mowing her lawn when an opportunist thief came through a neighbouring fence, in the back door of her home and made off with her handbag. The bag is described a large tan imitation crocodile type.

The incident happened sometime between 6.45pm and 8.15pm and the thief is believed to have made off through the front door. Nothing else was taken.

"I am not worried about the other things in the bag as they can be replaced," said the woman.

"I really do want the photographs back. There is one of my husband who passed away four years ago and it's the last photograph that was taken of him. There are others of my grand chidren that I would love to get back too.

"I am glad that I did not go in when the thief was still inside. I think he fled when he heard the mower switched off.

"I had to replace my driving licence - when you are over 70 your driving licence is free - but to get a replacement one I was charged 20 which seems unfair. All those other things that I have like bank cards, I can replace but it is annoying.

"They are obviously opportunist thieves. They are rascals. I would like to know if they have got a grandmother or parents. How would they like it if it happened to them.

"I have had a very bad time over the past year - my son was very ill but is thankfully recovering. What happened does not even compare with what I went through with my son. If 15 is that important to them then let them have it."