Theft of mower has left my disabled son in tears

11:30am Wednesday 6th August 2008

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A DISABLED teenager broke down in tears after a thief stole his beloved lawnmower, which he used to earn himself pocket money.

Although the old-fashioned lawnmower was not worth much financially, it was priceless to 15-year-old Sam Elliott because it was one of the few lawnmowers he was able to start.

Because of his disability, which remains undiagnosed but has similarities to cerebral palsy, Sam is unable to do many simple tasks.

He has no speech and communicates with sign language, and has problems with his co-ordination.

When Sam tried to use a newer lawnmower, it took him more than six hours to start it.

Sam’s mother Jackie Elliott said: “The lawnmower has given him back his self-confidence.

“Using the lawnmower is just something he loves doing. A normal 15-year-old would be out and about with his friends and be independent but Sam has not got that. He doesn’t like being disabled or different to anyone else.”

The red, cast-iron, petrol-powered Mountfield mower was taken from Sam’s front garden in Pelham Road, Droitwich, between 6.40pm and 7.10pm on Saturday.

Mrs Elliott said: “He was crying about it when he found out. Unless we can find another lawnmower like that, they will have taken away another piece of his independence.

“They are heartless people even though they probably didn’t know it was a disabled child’s lawnmower.

“It may not be worth much but it’s priceless for him. How can you put a price on someone’s independence?”

Sam walks with splints on his leg following a major operation in February, which prevented him from being confined to a wheelchair for the rest of his life. He is known in the area because he cuts his neighbours’ lawns to earn some pocket money.

The incident has been reported to West Mercia police. The suspect is described as white, aged about 40, of stocky build with short, fawn-coloured hair.

Sam’s 11-year-old sister Sophie saw the man pushing the mower along the street.

He was wearing a green T-shirt with the words “best team” printed on it.

No vehicle was spotted near the scene.

Those with information about this theft should contact West Mercia police on 08457 444 888 and quote reference number 246N020808.

Information can also be given anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

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