A PENSIONER has thanked a group of big-hearted builders who rallied round to help after she was robbed by callous young thieves.

Construction workers from Blackburn company Noblet Plant Hire gave chase as they saw 88-year-old Phyllis Nuttall's neighbours pursuing the teenage attackers, who took her purse containing £50 and a door key. And when they got away - they organised a whip round to replace the money. Builder Gary Slater, 31, said: "I ran for about a mile but I couldn't find them or the purse. I wish I could have caught them. I just felt so sorry for the old lady that I wanted to do something to cheer her up and show her some people still care. I think it's only what any decent person would have done."

Gary and his team were sub-contracted to Bethel Civil Engineering for a project in Darcy Lever, Bolton, when the teenagers tricked their way into the pensioner's home.

Afterwards, Phyllis handed Gary a thank-you letter. In it she said: "Thanks lads, it's nice to know some people still care, love Phyllis."

Neighbours Janet Barnes and Eunice Wood have rallied round to help Phyllis, together with her niece, Marion Bryson. Phyllis's locks have now been changed to prevent the thieves returning.

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