Community rallies after pensioner is mugged in the High Street

The community of Haverhill has rallied in support after a vulnerable pensioner was mugged for his pension money on Monday (June 22).

John Clarke, 81, had his pension money snatched from his hands at about 9.30am as he was stood outside the Post Office in the High Street.

“I was getting my pension,” said Mr Clarke. “And he came along and grabbed the whole lot.

“It was a quiet morning. There was one other nice bloke who ran after him. I don’t know what happened to him after.

“I’m alright. He didn’t hurt me, but it’s the shock. Nothing like this has ever happened to me before.”

The thief, who is described as being white with dark hair, aged in his 20s and wearing light coloured clothing, made off with £120, as well as a number of bank cards.

When word of the incident got out, however, Haverhill locals banded round to condemn the theft and to raise money to replace Mr Clarke’s stolen funds.

Haverhill woman, Sky Jordan, set up a fundraising page on the website, Go Fund Me. Within 25 minutes of setting it up, £100 had been donated by members of the community.

At the time of going to print, £160 had been raised, exceeding the amount stolen from Mr Clarke in the first place.

Mr Clarke said: “It’s really nice to know that people are there for you and that they care.

“I think it’s a really nice thing they’ve done. I’m really grateful.”

Maria Iron, Mr Clarke’s step daughter, thanked the community for its support.

She said: “He will be a bit shaky as it is a shock. It’s very kind of the community for the money that has been collected.”

Police are appealing for information about this incident and those involved. Anyone who can help should contact Haverhill police on 101.