AN ELDERLY couple have been left prisoners in their own home after both their mobility scooters were snatched.

Terence Mullee, aged 85, and his wife Elsie, aged 83, were devastated when they discovered their expensive scooters had been taken in the early hours of Friday morning.

The couple's son, Patrick, said: "The people who did this are scum. Those scooters not only cost a lot but are also the only way my parents can get around."

It was a further blow for Mr Mullee snr, who has suffered two heart attacks and strokes but managed to take his pet dog for a walk each day using his scooter.

It is believed the culprits scaled the couple's wall to get into the house, off Liverpool Road, in Sankey Bridges.

A spokesman for Warrington Police confirmed the incident had happened and said officers were investigating the crime.

While Mr Mullee's scooter was financed by the war veteran's association, his wife had to buy her own.

Now both face a long wait for replacements.

"My dad is unable to get very far on his own and this has caused terrible trauma to the family," added Mr Mullee.

"There has been a lot of talk recently about not handing out prison sentences.

"In my view, these people who advocate this type of justice must live in an ivory tower away from all reality."

Witnesses or anyone with information should call Warrington Police on 0845 458 0000.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.