Ref. 71869-27THE grandmother of a Swindon toddler who lost her fight against cancer has heaped praise on her daughter.

Earlier this month, we told how thieves targeted a fundraising account set up in memory of Abby Smith.

The three-year-old died two years ago from a brain tumour called a medulloblastoma.

Now Hazel Cherry, 60, of Downland Road, Woodhall Park, said her daughter, Helen, who set up the account, deserves a pat on the back for refusing to let the thieves win.

"While everyone else is sleeping Helen is on the internet trying to organise more fundraising events she has been working so hard," said Mrs Cherry.

"To everyone else Helen is still her normal self, but she has gone through an awful lot.

"It's not printable what I think about the people who stole from the account."

The grieving family only discovered that money was missing from the account when Mrs Smith examined a monthly bank statement last month.

It showed that someone had set up two direct debits without her knowledge with mobile phone company O2.

On July 9 a total of £71.65 had been taken out.

And when Mrs Smith a teacher at Haydonleigh Primary School contacted the Royal Bank of Scotland, where the account is held, she was told that the thieves had unsuccessfully attempted to set up two further direct debits with another telecom company, Orange.

Mrs Smith, who is currently on holiday in Italy, has now closed the account and transferred funds into another.

"Helen was very upset," said Mrs Cherry. "We couldn't believe that anyone could do this.

"Fortunately we are a very close family and we have been able to stay focused. I just hope the police catch them."

Mrs Cherry has joined her daughter and other family members in several fundraising events over the past couple of years.

She said: "Helen has not stopped fundraising for one minute.

"She is wonderful and I am not just saying that because I am her mum.

"She is a very popular teacher and that job cannot be easy when you have lost your little girl.

"More than anyone else, Helen knows just how precious children are.

"That is why she wants to give all these sick kiddies a chance."

Money paid into The Abby Smith Cancer Fund is divided between the Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Movement (CALM) and Oxford's John Radcliffe Hospital, where Abby received treatment.

Police are still investigating the theft.

A charity auction is planned for September 24 at the De Vere Hotel, in Fleming Way. Prizes include a book signed by Jeffrey Archer and tea for two at The Ritz in London.

Anyone wanting to make a donation or further information on how to get involved in the fundraising can call the family on 01793 526571.

Kevin Shoesmith