A blind elderly Shropshire man has been left heartbroken after thieves stole a nameplate from a memorial bench dedicated to his wife who helped care for him.

For many years Fred and Margaret Hall were often seen walking the footpaths in the area around Pontesbury, near Shrewsbury, covering many miles of the beautiful countryside.

Fred relied on Margaret to be his eyes and appreciate the surroundings that they loved so much.

But after her death last year Fred no longer has her by his side and friends say he has been left shattered after learning thieves have stolen her memorial plaque – just two weeks after it was put up in the village.

Mr Hall’s friend Brian Morris, of Pontesbury, said everybody was furious.

He said: “Fred is really upset. It’s just mindless vandalism – there is no other word for it. What pleasure anybody gets from doing something like this just beggars belief.”

The bench was made by a local craftsman and the site was prepared by local volunteers. It was placed on its base two weeks ago. A few days later a service of blessing was held to dedicate the bench and the plaque that Fred had had made.

Mr Morris said: “On Saturday, just two weeks after the bench was sited, the plaque has been levered off and stolen.”

Richard Ewels, spokesman for West Mercia Police, said they were appealing for anyone with information.

He said: “The theft of the plaque was reported on Tuesday morning from a memorial bench. It seems it was probably taken between 4pm on Friday and 4pm on Saturday. The plaque had been unscrewed from the bench. Its approximate value is £130 but it’s worthless to anyone else.

“Police are appealing for any information about those responsible or the whereabouts of the plaque.”

Information can be given to Constable Jon Somerfield at Pontesbury Police Station or by calling 0300 330 3000.

The bench was commissioned after Mr Hall approached the parish council for permission to donate a bench to his wife’s memory.

By Russell Roberts