By SARAH HARKER

A DEVASTATED pensioner is appealing for the return of sentimental items stolen from her home over Christmas.

Kathleen Stephenson, aged 61, of Sankey Bridges, lost her ex-husband to lung cancer and her 38-year-old son to liver failure and pneumonia earlier this year.

After a tragic and traumatic year, Kathleen decided not to celebrate Christmas and thought that things couldn't get much worse.

But late on Saturday, December 23, Kathleen's home was broken into while she was out with friends.

Among the items taken were a hi-fi, CDs and tapes all gifts from Kathleen's son, Albert, who died in August.

Neighbours spotted the intruder, called the police and alerted Kathleen to the break-in when she returned home.

Kathleen said: "I was feeling down as Christmas got nearer, but when I found out I'd been burgled I just hit rock bottom. I lost them within six weeks of each other and now I just feel so empty."

Other items stolen in the burglary included a Dyson vacuum cleaner. Kathleen's TV and video were found on the front lawn.

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of the stolen items can contact Kathleen on 633946.