Readers of a London weekly have donated more than £1,500 to a 99-year-old widow who lost £4,500 in a distraction burglary.

The Hampstead & Highgate Express launched a fundraising campaign for Edith Sell, pictured left, after she was burgled earlier this year.

After widow Mrs Sell spoke about her ordeal in the Ham & High earlier this month, readers came forward to give £1,540 to the stricken former waitress and cleaner.

The money will allow Mrs Sell to enjoy a holiday in Norfolk next month.

She told the paper: “From the day I was born, I’ve never had anything given to me. I’ve worked all my life.

“I’m speechless, I would never have thought that anyone could have done this.  I really don’t know what to say: thank you, thank you.”

Donations to the appeal can still be made here.