TWO pensioners will be virtually housebound after thieves stole their mobility scooters.

And because CCTV cameras were not working, police have told them there is little chance the thieves will be traced.

Kenny Marsh and Sara Slack, both residents of the George Hall Court, of Royston Road, Park South, discovered their red Daihatsu scooters were missing on Monday morning.

"I do not think they understand what is right and wrong," said Mrs Slack, 77.

"They are causing distress to people who live in this area."

Mr Marsh, 78, added: "They think it's funny, but it's not. I'm really annoyed, but there's nothing I can do." It is thought the scooters were hotwired and driven out of the building after the thieves gained access by smashing a window. Police are investigating.

Both pensioners depend on the scooters for transport to the shops, and for visiting relatives.

"The scooter gives me independence," said Mrs Slack.

"It makes a considerable amount of difference to how I view life."

The vehicles cost about £3,000 each and, though Mrs Slack has insurance, Mr Marsh did not realise he needed insurance until it was too late. Mrs Slack added: "I'm so cross, I can't express how devastating it is. Yes it was insured, it will be replaced, but it was mine - I'd learned on it and all for what? For something that will give them a couple of hours fun."

"The police said they thought it was kids," added Mrs Slack.

This latest crime is a particular blow to Mrs Slack who was part of a group which worked with Swindon Council on local projects, such as the skate park.

The idea of such schemes was to provide children with entertainment to try to improve the area and stop crime.

"That is why I rant - because we worked really hard on that with the council." she said.

The George Hall Court is a sheltered block of housing for mainly elderly people and in spite of the presence of a warden and CCTV cameras there have been other incidents both inside and outside the premises.

In spite of her experience Mrs Slack defended Park South.

"People look at Park South and think what do you expect?' but that's not true," she said.