Big-hearted Grantham police officers organised a whip-round for an eight-year-old Fulbeck schoolboy whose Christmas and birthday money had been stolen during a house burglary.

When officers attended the burglary last month they discovered that £80 belonging to the youngster had been taken.

A Lincolnshire Police spokesman said: "Our officers decided to have a whip-round, and give it back.

"The officers took round the cash and presented it to the surprised and delighted boy at his home.

"They reported that he smiled non-stop during their visit and especially enjoyed his experience of putting on the police car lights.

"These officers probably turned what would have been one of his worst childhood memories, into one of his best.

"Thank you PC James Knychala, PC Christopher Windsor-Beck and PS Dan McCormack!

"We are proud to work alongside you."