A community has rallied round the elderly victim of a night time burglary, offering support and free security upgrades for her home.

The woman, believed to be in her 90s, was dragged out of her bed by burglars and forced to hand over her wedding ring.

Police are appealing for information following the incident, which happened in Thames Haven Road, Corringham, at around 4.30am on Wednesday, July 12.

The suspects also stole a necklace and bank cards before threatening to hurt the woman.

The victim’s bank card was later used at Lloyds bank in Corringham and a three-figure sum of cash was taken.

Since the incident, the woman’s gardener Rob Jobson took to Facebook to raise his concern about the safety of properties in the area and has been looking after the victim.

Rob, who lives in Stanford-le-Hope and has been the woman’s gardener for two years, said: “The past few days, I have taken her flowers from myself.

“I have probed several companies, from cafes, hairdressers and security alarm guys, to see if they can help her out.

“Hardie Park cafe in Stanford-le-Hope has placed a money jar and collected a nice amount for her as well which is great.

“Bouquets and hanging baskets have been sent and some people have even offered to supply and fit full security items free of charge.

“It has been a completely overwhelming response from the community who were really shocked and upset to hear what had happened.”

Residents in the area were surprised to learn that an incident of this nature had taken place.

Jack Watterson, of Giffords Cross Road, Corringham, said: “It’s usually pretty quiet round here.

“We never get much trouble so I was shocked to see something like this had happened. I hope the lady is OK and I’m please she has support from the community.”

The woman has asked to remain anonymous but Rob said she is recovering well.

“She cannot thank everyone enough and says she is luckier than many to have such lovely neighbours and doesn’t understand the fuss.”

A 25 year-old man has since been arrested and charged with a string of offences but one suspect remains outstanding.

Lewis Onwuchekwa, 25, of Newton Road Tilbury, has been charged with robbery, dangerous driving, possession of a noxious substance with intent to resist arrest, assaulting a police officer and escaping lawful custody.

He appeared at Basildon Magistrates’ Court on July 17 where he entered pleas of not guilty to all charges and was remanded in custody until a pre-trial hearing on August 14.

Police are still looking to trace a second man in connection with the incident but there is no description at this time.

Anyone who was in the Thames Haven Road or near the Lloyds in Corringham at that time, or has any information, is asked to contact Essex Police on 101.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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