An 81-year-old victim of theft was subject to an act of kindness after a local couple Mary Redfern and Derek James fundraised to replace what he lost.
Albert Manasseh, who turns 82 in October, had his electric bicycle stolen on March 29 from the Armadale Aquatic and Fitness Centre.
Ms Redfern and Mr James approached Examiner Newspapers after reading about Mr Manasseh’s loss, to offer to fundraise for a new electric bike.
Examiner Newspapers contacted the Police about the offer to assist Mr Manasseh, who used his electric bike to travel to the Armadale Aquatic Centre four days a week in order to stay healthy and fit.
Various efforts were made to fundraise for the bike including a tin left at Perth Town Hall during a concert on Tuesdays that the couple regularly attend.
After efforts from Ms Redfern, Mr James and their friends they raised money to buy the bike from Anaconda in Cannington at a discount.
On Thursday June 10 Mr Manasseh was presented with his new electric bike alongside Ms Redfern, Mr James and members of the community that contributed to the funds.
“I would just like to thank Derek and Mary for getting the ball rolling and to everyone who helped,” Mr Manasseh said.
“We don’t see a lot of kindness like this and I’m so thankful.”
Mr James and Ms Redfern said they would continue to check in and see how Mr Manasseh is going.
