Kindhearted neighbours of an East Belfast pensioner plan to install CCTV at her home following two break-ins.
Katherine Crawford has suffered two alleged burglaries at her home in the city since Christmas.
So Mandy Harvey and Gemma Barrett, who live on the same street as the pensioner, were keen to do something to protect the 86-year-old from being targeted again.
Mandy said: “I have known Katherine since I was a child.
“It’s definitely made us as neighbours come together to look after her because twice in five months is beyond a joke. It’s scary.
“The neighbour beside me and Gemma has been walking her dog everyday as well.
“I think it’s a disgrace that she (Katherine) has been victimised twice in such a short period of time.
“Years ago, nothing like that ever happened.
“Growing up in this area, we all left our doors open - now you have to make sure your doors are locked.
“We have raised £106 already for CCTV, a dog flap and a security bracelet,” Mandy added.
“We have a company coming out and they have offered to put the CCTV in for half price.”
Gemma added: “It’s bad enough it happened once, but twice is ridiculous.”
Katherine has long lived alone and relies on neighbours and family for support.
She said: “My husband is dead 17 years now, so I am on my own for 17 years - but I have been in this house from 1985, from it was built.”
As for her kindhearted neighbours, Katherine said she wouldn’t know what to do without them.
“My neighbours have been more than helpful and more than good.”
CLICK HERE if you would like to help fund Katherine's CCTV.
