Ref. 27767A pensioner left counting the cost after her car was broken into outside her home is fuming after receiving just £1 in compensation.

Sarah Breakspear, 78, believes the two youths responsible for breaking in to her Nissan Micra are laughing at justice after stumping up just £1 between them since their conviction two months ago.

The widow had to dig into her own pocket to repair her car door when it was targeted outside her Bradford on Avon home in November.

Forensic officers helped pinpoint the suspects and they were arrested and convicted in the same month at Chippenham Youth Court.

Magistrates ordered the thieves to pay £27.50 in compensation between them, despite the victim shelling out £50 for the damage.

Mrs Breakspear, of Lodden Way, said she was planning on giving the compensation to the Salvation Army but was now too embarrassed.

"I was hoping to give the money to charity but that would be an absolute insult.

"I think the compensation process is disgusting. I have been on my own for 30 years.

"I keep within the law and am a good citizen and this is the treatment I get.

"It would have been better if they had not sent it at all. I bet those thieves are laughing their heads off.

"I think I should go and book a cruise and see if they will take it as a deposit."

A spokesman for the court's fines office said they were unable to discuss details because of restrictions governing cases involving youths. Compensation orders are often paid over instalments but if payments are missed, reminder notices are sent out.

If money is still not recovered it can lead to no-bail warrants and reappearances before the fines court.

In cases involving youths, parents or guardians are often ordered to pay any fines, costs or compensation.

Mrs Breakspear said she does not expect to see any more cash coming her way.

"The courts should be chasing the money harder for victims. In this case the stamp and postage probably cost more than the cheque," she said.

"I don't expect to get much more money in the near future.

"I am not leaving my car out on the street any more so I have to pay money every week for a garage."