Charity replaces computer games stolen from Norfolk hospital

East Coast Truckers gave a Christmas present to the Jenny Lind Ward at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.

SAM EMANUEL
23 December 2009 14:00



Sick youngsters at a Norfolk hospital have been given an early Christmas treat after a charity replaced computer game consoles stolen by callous thieves.

The Sony PlayStation Portables (PSPs) were taken from the Jenny Lind Children's Ward at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital on October 4.

But yesterday members of the East Coast Truckers, a charity which had read about the crime and the fundraising efforts of Norfolk grandmother Doreen Larkman in the Evening News, presented children with nine new replacement consoles.

Mike Read, charity liaison officer for the East Coast Truckers, said: “We read about what happened in the Evening News and thought it was pretty mean for someone to nick things from kids at a hospital just before Christmas, so we wanted to help.

“We normally raise money to take children on days out, but we sometimes make exceptions and we had the money available, so we decided to replace all of them.”

Emma Wilson, whose six-year-old son Joshua Wilson was at the hospital yesterday for a check-up, said she was delighted by the charity's generosity.

The legal secretary, from Tacolneston, said: “I think what they've done is amazing. It is disgusting that they were stolen in the first place, but I'm so pleased the truckers have been able to raise funds for new ones.

“It can be very daunting for children to come to hospital and the PSPs keep them entertained and make the time go more quickly.”

Emma Jarvis, hospital arts co-ordinator, added: “The East Coast Truckers read about Mrs Larkman's fundraising campaign in the Evening News and got in touch. We are absolutely delighted; it was so lovely of them.

“We were so horrified when the PSPs were stolen - they were cut from their fixings, which would require proper cutting equipment, so it was all planned and they were stealing from children.

“But this time we will be getting even more secure fixings to ensure the same thing doesn't happen again. We still need to raise money for these, though.”

If you would like to donate towards the cost of the replacement fixings and games for the consoles, call Emma Jarvis on 01603 287870.

Has your Christmas been ruined by thieves or have you received a donation that will help you enjoy the festive season? Call Sam Emanuel on 01603 772438 or email sam.emanuel@archant.co.uk.

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