ON Easter Saturday afternoon, while walking my dog in Forestry land near Halwill, I had my locked car broken into and my handbag, which was well hidden under coats and rugs, stolen.

There was little of resale value in it, but my husband gave it to me shortly before he died, a few weeks ago.

Devastated and angry, I drove straight to Okehampton Police Station to report the incident. There I met nothing but kindness and help. The lady on duty looked after me, helped me with the inevitable form filling and found all the phone numbers I needed to cancel my bank cards,which we did there and then.

So, to the mindless louts who broke into my car, please at least return my handbag, it is irreplaceable.

But to all the staff at Okehampton Police Station, my very sincere and grateful thanks.

With their help my stress was kept to a minimum and I have been able to relax and enjoy the main part of my weekend in Devon.

Mrs Beverly D Abson

Dorchester Way

Belmont

Hereford

(formerly of Halwill)