A HEARTBROKEN pensioner has slammed the 'scumbags' who stole his vital car - two days after his wife's funeral.

Ian Gilchrist, aged 69, from Appleton, was buying a newspaper from Cobbs News, Bridge Lane, when the Vauxhall Meriva was taken when parked outside.

Mr Gilchrist said he remembers turning the engine off, but due to his grieving state did not know if he had left the keys in the car, or dropped them.

The funeral of wife of 49 years, Anne, had been held at Walton Lea Crematorium 48 hours prior to the theft.

He said: "Because my head was in such a mess because of my wife, I'm not sure what happened, but they must have been quick.

"I went into the shop to buy the Rugby Paper, and when I came out, it had gone.

"I'd just like to say thanks to the scumbags who did it, two days after I said goodbye to my wife.

"I'm absolutely lost without it.

"After losing my wife and all the trauma that entails, I'm absolutely devastated."

Great grandma Anne died on November 16, two months after she was diagnosed with cancer.

"She was fantastic," said Mr Gilchrist.

"She was a bubbly person and I trusted her with my life.

"I cared for her, and to watch somebody you love go like that, and then someone steals your car."

The couple, who have three children, six grandchildren and two great grandchildren, were due to celebrate their golden wedding anniversary in March.

Mr Gilchrist said he was on the way to give a wreath of flowers from the funeral to his granddaughter when the car was stolen.

The theft happened on December 3. It has been reported to Cheshire Police.

Mr Gilchrist added: "I don't seem to be getting any answers.

"The police say it could have been dumped but the car must be out there somewhere.

"I can't walk far myself because of health problems, I'm like a prisoner in my home without it."