Donations have poured in for a 100-year-old woman who was robbed after thieves tricked their way into her home in Darlington.
The crooks conned the pensioner by claiming their football had been kicked into her garden in Surtees Street on Tuesday.
Officers arrested two people in connection with the burglary after around £130 was taken from her home.
Following a police appeal for information, dozens of people contacted Durham Police with donations for the elderly victim, with her family thanking well-wishers for their generosity.
Detective Sergeant Jo Godber, from Darlington CID, said: “The family have been overwhelmed by people’s kindness and would like to express their gratitude to everyone for their generosity.
“They have decided to donate the money to charity, and have asked that no more donations are made.”
The force said a 27-year-old man and 43-year-old woman were arrested and interviewed on suspicion of burglary and have been released under investigation while inquiries continue.
Anyone with further information is asked to call Durham Police on 101.
