Man steals 103-year-old’s engagement ring

A 103-YEAR-OLD had her engagement ring stolen during a burglary at her home, police said yesterday.

The thieves removed the ring from the pensioner’s finger during the raid in West Didsbury, Manchester, on Saturday morning.

Widow Florence Heyes had worn the ring for 57 years.

A man pretending to be a police officer knocked at Ms Heyes’ door on Palatine Road at 7.30am and followed her into the kitchen.

He demanded money and jewellery and took the ring when Ms Heyes said she did not have any.

Detective Sergeant Gary Smith, of Greater Manchester Police, said: “This was a despicable incident, targeting an elderly woman in her own home.

“This man not only lied to the victim, but also stole a ring she was wearing on her finger, an engagement ring she had worn for 57 years. In terms of material value, this may not seem much, but the sentimental value, combined with the fact that this woman’s personal safety had been compromised, means her loss is far greater,” he said.

“To target such a vulnerable member of the community in her own home is completely unacceptable.”

The burglar is described as white, 6ft 2in tall, of slim build with short hair. He was wearing a light coloured jumper, black trousers and black shoes.

Ms Heyes said she was devastated at losing the ring, given to her by her late husband John more than half a century ago.

She said she was too frightened to sleep after the attack at her home.

“I’m so upset that he took my engagement ring, it meant so much to me,” she said.

“I’m very nervous all the time now and I’m frightened to go to sleep at night.

“I was so scared when he came into the flat. He kept asking me where my money was and I told him that I didn’t have much.

“I won’t even go near the front door now, I won’t open it to anyone until I’m sure of who they are.”

Ms Heyes revealed that the thief, who is believed to be in his 40s, roughly wrenched the ring from her finger before stealing £50 (€73) from her handbag.

Chief Inspector Catherine Hankinson, of Greater Manchester Police, said: “This is a very upsetting episode in this old lady’s long life.”