WILTSHIRE TIMES EXCLUSIVE: POLICE in Trowbridge are investigating claims a child benefits book was stolen from a mother while her four-year-old daughter lay dying in hospital.

Cher Velvick, 28, was keeping a round-the-clock vigil at her daughter Jackie-Danielle's bedside when a benefits book was stolen from her Longfield Road home.

One payment was cashed the day after Jackie-Danielle plunged 20ft out of a first-floor window, while a second cash withdrawal was made a week later on December 30 the day after the four-year-old died.

Sgt Martin Scorah confirmed an inquiry had been launched.

He said: "The lady, Cher Velvick, whilst at her daughter's bedside, be-came the victim of a crime in that the child benefits book relating to her family was stolen from their home and two fraudulent claims were made.

"We are making inquiries with the fraud department at the post office."

Officers confirmed they are planning to interview a man and a woman in relation to the theft and fraudulent claims.

Post office security camera footage from December 23 and 30 the dates of the alleged offences will be seized with police hoping cashiers can provide vital evidence.

Miss Velvick said she could not believe anyone would take advantage of her family's misery.

She said: "I can't believe somebody would do this not to a family suffering as much as we are.

"One of the payments was cashed the day after Jackie-Danielle died which is appalling.

"I reported it as soon as I knew the benefits book was missing.

"My mother is disgusted and so is everyone else."