A generous stranger has reimbursed the £150 that was stolen from a young mother when her purse was taken in Swindon.

Charissa Livingstone of Moredon was shopping at the Simply Local shop on Moredon Road when her purse was taken.

Upon watching back the shop’s CCTV footage, it appeared that a pensioner had taken the purse which contained £150 in cash as well as sentimental notes from Charissa’s eight-year-old son Sidney.

The purse was later handed back in at the shop by the pensioner but was returned soaking wet with none of the original possessions in it - but rather some random coins.

Swindon Advertiser: The young mum had several sentimental notes inside the purse from her son Sidney (centre).The young mum had several sentimental notes inside the purse from her son Sidney (centre). (Image: Newsquest)

After seeing the Adver’s coverage on the story, Moredon roofer Mervyn Richards got in touch to reimburse Charissa with the money that she had lost.

“I saw the article in the paper and I thought it was a pretty sad thing to happen and to replace it is a nice gesture for someone in the local community,” he said.

“I felt very sorry for Charissa after reading it as she said she was saving up.

“Times are hard at this minute so it is good to help those that are less fortunate.”

Swindon Advertiser: The two strangers later discovered that they lived just 100 yards away from each other.The two strangers later discovered that they lived just 100 yards away from each other. (Image: Newsquest)

The 24-year-old mum had been left devastated after having the money taken as the £150 made up the majority of her savings at the time.

“I am shocked and incredibly grateful as it has turned my whole perspective on people around,” said Charissa.

“It has changed my view of things so I am no longer pressing charges on the pensioner because of this gesture, a gesture should be given to that woman as she must have been in trouble.”

The Moredon duo realised after meeting up that they are a lot closer than they thought geographically and spoke of a potential second meet.

“We also just realised that we live about 100 yards from each other which is pretty crazy,” said 42-year-old Mervyn.

Swindon Advertiser: Mervyn provides roofing services to the local community.Mervyn provides roofing services to the local community. (Image: Newsquest)

Charissa added: “I want to bake him a cake or some cookies to show my gratitude.

“I know it is not enough but if he’s ever in trouble, I am of course super close by.

“And if my roof ever needs fixing, I know who to call.”

The whole experience has left Charissa positively shocked and reconsidering her trips to the local shop.

“I hope next time I come to the shop, it's not as eventful as this,” she said.