“Despicable” criminals burgle Stroud home of World War Two veteran (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

“Despicable” criminals burgle Stroud home of World War Two veteran

1:16pm Thursday 3rd January 2013 in News By Ian Craig

A NUMBER of items have been stolen from the Stroud home of a 91-year-old World War Two veteran.

The thief or thieves broke into the house on Birches Drive through a side window some time between midnight and 7pm on New Year’s Day.

Items stolen include:

• A watch with a gold spitfire on the face and white metal strap.
• Two watches with multi-dials and brown straps.
• A brown leather wallet.
• Several debit and credit cards.
• A black iPhone.

Police Sergeant Jo Fletcher described the crime as “a despicable act”.

“This gentleman is one of the country’s heroes, having courageously served as a fighter pilot in World War II,” she said.

“This remarkable man literally put his life on the line to protect the nation and ensure freedom for future generations and then continued in his civilian life by devoting himself to charity work.

“For someone to break into his house is a despicable act and whoever has done this should be ashamed of themselves.

“We are calling on anyone who knows anything about this burglary to come forward and help us catch those responsible.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Gloucestershire police on 101 quoting incident 309 of January 1.

Information can also be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org and you may receive a reward of up to £1,000 if someone is arrested and charged as a result.