THIEVES snatched £100 collected by a mechanic who had decorated his home in spectacular style to raise cash for a children’s charity - just hours before Christmas Day.

But the support of a very generous community has seen the fundraiser now smash his £5,000 target after being inundated with donations.

Ian Reading, of Main Road, Hockley covered his home in twinkling lights for disabled and sick children - but idiots he blasted as “scum” stole the donation boxes.

For 12 years he has collected for charity Southend Toy Library to help youngsters.

He said: “To steal this cash is so heartless and disgusting and I just cannot understand it at all.

“However, something good has come from it as so many people have come forward to help out - with some knocking on my door and messaging me online.

“We also had about £1,500 extra donated after the boxes were stolen.

“There wasn’t even that much in the boxes perhaps about £100 if that - I hadn’t emptied it in a day as I was busy with organising Christmas.”

The owner of White Hart Service Station, in Hockley, says it has been such a tough year for a lot of people, but less fortunate children especially need something to look forward to.

He added: “How low can someone go? I have CCTV and will be checking it, but believe me I will find them.

“They are just scum of the earth - that doesn’t even sum them up to be honest.

“Last year I collected £7,000 for the charity, which covers half its yearly running costs.

Mr Reading hopes the pair know they will not stop the funding efforts.

He added: “These idiots are just a minority and for me it’s more about everyone else who rallies to help these children.”

Mr Reading praised and thanked everyone for their support and donations and said the community has been amazing - especially after the charity box theft.

Southend Toy Library works to offer support, advice, specialist equipment, respite and more for parents and carers with children who have special needs, and support for the children too.

To donate to Mr Reading’s twinkling fundraising spectacular, log onto www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ian-reading