A GRANDMOTHER left traumatised after her home was raided by thieves is starting to rebuild her life.

Joan Pilkington's Manchester Road home was ransacked in April for the second time in just seven months and stripped of everything — even a box of 180 teabags.

The 79-year-old was sleeping upstairs as thugs took her car, sentimental jewellery, TV, laptop, mobile phone, bank cards and food from her freezer.

In response to The Bolton News report on the theft, cards and flowers from readers have flooded in to Mrs Pilkington, she also received an offer to have a burglar alarm fitted free of charge.

Mrs Pilkington said: "It's wonderful, there's some really kind people. I can't believe the kindness and concern people have shown.

"I've had cards and flowers, I've been really touched by everyone who has read the story.

"I've had some wonderful messages telling me to be strong. It has helped because you feel people do understand."

Police have recovered her £20,000 car, but Mrs Pilkington says she was hurt at the sight of the car which gave her valuable independence.

She said: "It was quite badly scratched and dented. To see it in such a state, completely stripped of everything like my jackets, my umbrellas, it broke my heart. I only got it 18 months ago and it was in beautiful condition."

Mrs Pilkington said: "Gradually I'm building things back to the way they were.

"I feel much safer now, but I'm still very shaken. I don't feel like I can trust anyone again."