PEOPLE in Swindon are showing yet again that they have warm hearts and an impressively generous spirit.

But their response to the mugging of a vulnerable 81-year-old who had just collected her own and a neighbour's pension from the Victoria Road Post Office is more than generosity.

We believe the money which has poured in as a result of the appeal by trader Jeff Workman is also an expression of disgust that in our relatively law abiding town and in this so-called civilised age a young man can bring himself to attack a frail pensioner and send her flying.

It's doubtful if this lout has a conscience and even more so that he will give himself up. Since the old lady, Daisy, had around £500 in her handbag he probably feels he had a good day.

But we appeal to anybody who thinks they know this man to tell Swindon police now. He should not be free to do this to other old people or to anyone else.

We should all try to ensure that the elderly and vulnerable know what precautions to take when carrying money.

Though we understand why some old and disabled people don't like using banks or building societies, they should at least consider having pensions and allowances paid directly into into an account.

Meanwhile, we like Mr Workman hope the generous response of his customers and others will restore Daisy's faith in human nature.