THE plight of an 81-year-old Old Town mugging victim has sparked a fantastic show of generosity.

Shopkeepers were appalled after hearing about the attack on the lady, named only as Daisy, who was punched to the floor and robbed of £500 on November 16.

Greengrocer Jeff Workman launched an appeal to ensure a happy Christmas for the pensioner.

A poster was placed in the window of Workmans in Prospect Place, Old Town, and the money has flooded in, well exceeding the original target of recouping the £500.

The victim who has asked not to be named in full had just collected her pension from the Victoria Road post office when her attacker struck.

She was found in the street with a swollen and grazed ankle.

Mr Workman said: "We have reached our appeal target but people are still insisting they want to make a donation."

He said Daisy had been a regular customer for 55 years and the attack had disgusted both staff and fellow customers.

As well as being severely shaken by her ordeal, Daisy was upset because £400 of the money stolen was the pension and heating allowance she had collected for her 93-year-old neighbour.

The attacker, described as a young-looking white, skinny man, fled down South Street after snatching the bag.

Detective Sergeant Tim Corner, the officer investigating the case, is urging people to be aware of the risks.

"We want to get the message across that people especially older women should be extra vigilant."

Anyone with information about the attack should contact Swindon police on 01793 528111.