AN elderly Redditch man whose pension money was stolen moments after he collected it has been reimbursed by a police fund.

Officers from the Redditch Central Safer Neighbourhood Team handed over £240 to Gerald Harbon, the same amount he had taken from him during the theft in May.

Mr Harbon, aged 93, had just withdrawn his pension when he was approached by a man asking for directions in Alcester Street. After the man had left, Mr Harbon realised that his pension money had been stolen from his pocket.

It is believed the man had distracted him with questions in order to steal the cash.

No-one was arrested in connection with the inquiry.

PC Adrian Corrigan recommended the case to the West Mercia Police Community Fund, and was delighted to be able to tell Mr Harbon he would receive back the entire amount.

He said “We are very pleased to be able to replace Mr Harbon’s stolen money. Crimes against elderly people are particularly despicable, so it was nice to be able to bring him some good news.”

Mr Harbon said: "I was annoyed as I felt that I was being watched in the post office and then followed.

"I can’t understand why people like this target those of my age. But I could have been harmed and was just grateful that I wasn’t hurt.”

The West Mercia Police Community Fund is a registered charity and was set up in 1991 to benefit victims of crime. It is largely funded by voluntary contributions from officers and staff as well as receiving a share of the annual proceeds of the sale of seized property and general donations from well-wishers and fundraising events.

Donations are awarded to victims of crime who have suffered severe financial hardship as a result of crime. The fund has also contributed to local community projects.