A SECOND World War veteran and his wife have had their life savings stolen after burglars broke into their home.

The burglary happened yesterday (Thursday, June 8) between 2pm and 4.20pm at a property in Parkside, Darlington. A window on the back door had been smashed allowing the burglars access to the property and £2,000 in cash was taken.

The victims, a former RAF air gunner and his wife, were not in the house at the time. He is in his early 90s and his wife in her late 80s.

Inspector Chris Knox, from Darlington Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “This was a despicable crime which has left the elderly couple and their family shaken and distressed.

“After what this man has given to the community, he and his wife should be able to enjoy their later life in peace together.

“I would urge anyone who has any information or anyone who saw anybody acting suspiciously, particularly around the ‘Skinny Bridge’ area, to get in touch.”

Anyone with any information can call Durham Police on 101, quoting incident number 287 of June 8, 2017.

My aim is to hopefully recoup some of the losses and give back what this couple have worked so hard for.