23rd September, 2011
Police in Darlington are appealing for information after a local man was burgled – while he was at hospital receiving treatment for cancer.
Brian THOMAS, 61 had left his home in Montrose Road in the town at about 8am on Wednesday, 21 Sept. When he returned to the house late the same afternoon from Darlington Memorial Hospital he found burglars had broken in through a downstairs window and made off with several items, including his laptop computer.
The maroon-coloured Samsung laptop, which has an 18" screen contained material for a book Mr Thomas has been writing on King Arthur, a subject in which he has had a lifelong interest. It has also been his main link to friends and family, via Facebook while he has been receiving treatment for his illness over the last few months.
Mr Thomas, a chef who worked with the Army and also in restaurants around the north east moved to Darlington three years ago. Earlier this year he was diagnosed with an inoperable tumour in his throat and on Wednesday had been to hospital to have a tube fitted in his stomach so he could continue to take in food.
Det Con Nev Price of Darlington CID said; "We are hoping whoever broke into the house has a conscience and will return Brian's property, especially the laptop. At a time when he is receiving treatment for a serious condition, this break-in is the last thing he needed."
Anyone with information is asked to ring the police on 0345 6060 365 or to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.