A RETIRED man from Verwood woke up on Thursday morning to find his mobility scooter had been stolen overnight.

Fred Fox, 71, said he got up, had breakfast and got dressed, before pulling the curtains back to discover his scooter was missing.

Mr Fox, who lives on his own in his flat, said: "I just couldn't believe it. I was shaking with temper."

On the same night, one of Mr Fox's neighbours also had her mobility scooter stolen.

Mr Fox added: "This scooter was worth between one and a half and two thousands pounds, and two people have been targeted.

"If the police track the person down who did this, I want this to go to court."

Verwood and Alderholt Police are appealing for witnesses, but Mr Fox says so far they "haven't been very helpful", and "doesn't think they've done enough".

He added: "They [the police] are never around when you want them, that's the problem."

The mobility scooters were both new models made by Rascal Mobility. One is red and the other black.

Dorset Police have since issued an appeal for witnesses to come forward. 

Police Sergeant Jane Moore, of East Dorset police, said: “Both the victims rely on their mobility scooters and have understandably been left upset at losing their essential transport.

“I am appealing for any witnesses to the theft, or anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area of Howard Road on the night of Wednesday 24 April 2019, to contact police.

“We would also like to hear from anyone who comes across a mobility scooter matching the descriptions given in unusual circumstances.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55190061964.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org