A DISABLED woman has been left devastated after the beloved dog she had just reunited with after being stolen was hit and killed by a car.

Miriam Binder, 62, of Manor Close, Whitehawk, described her two-year-old Patterdale terrier, Bootsie as the light of her life.

But when Miriam took Bootsie out to East Brighton Park she died. They were close to a group of boys who were playing football.

The young pooch chased after the ball and when she dashed on to the road she was hit by a car.

Miriam said: “She suffered a collapsed lung after she was struck. The boys came to help me.

“They drove her to New Priory Vets but she died on the way.

“It happened all of a sudden. It has taken me some time to talk about it without crying. She was the light of my life.”

On May 31 Bootsie was taken from outside Asda at Brighton Marina.

However, a watchful and kind Asda staff member spotted Bootsie with a man at the Esplanade, near Dukes Mound, two days later.

Miriam was reunited with her pet.

Miriam, who is also an activist with the Disabled People Against Cuts group, said: “I rescued Bootsie last year. When I got her she was terrified.

“She had been in seven homes before coming to me.

“I built her up again. She became more trusting and confident.

“Bootsie was very gentle and friendly.

“I want to do something in memory of her.

“I want to start a campaign to establish a designated area in East Brighton Park where dogs can be safely let off their leash.

“A lot of dog owners use the park. I’ve spoken to them and they agreed there should be a designated area.

“This idea also benefits people who use the park to play sports.

“Once Bootsie ran away with a football when there was a game going on. The players had to chase after her.

“It’s not convenient for both sides.

“I also want to campaign for a speed limit to be installed on the small road which runs through the park.

“If there was a 5mph speed limit I don’t think she would have suffered a fatal injury and would still be alive.”