Callous thieves have stolen a pensioner’s only form of transport.

Colin Thomas, who lives in Meeting Street in Ramsgate with wife Eileen, was devastated to discover that the scooter which gives him the freedom to remain independent had been taken.

The 83-year-old former chargehand at art supply manufacturer Winsor and Newton bought the scooter about 10 years ago and used it on a daily basis to attend medical appointments and visit shops.

Daughter-in-law Sarah Thomas, who lives in Ramsgate, is a carer to the couple.

She said: “It’s my father-in-law’s only means of getting around. He was so shocked when he discovered that it had gone missing.

“He’s very immobile but he likes to try and get out and do things.

“My mother-in-law is housebound so she is not able to go out unless I take her out in a wheelchair.”

Mr and Mrs Thomas moved to Ramsgate in 1998 to be with their family after Mrs Thomas retired.

The mobility scooter and charger were stolen some time between Saturday evening and Sunday morning from where they were stored in the couple’s garage.

Sarah Thomas said: “I think it was targeted and the thieves knew it was there. It was in good condition and to buy a replacement could cost anything up to £3,000.”

The family are hoping that the cost of replacing the scooter will be covered by insurance and in the meantime Mr Thomas has been lent a scooter temporarily.

But Mrs Thomas is keen to find out what has happened to her father-in-law’s original transport.

She said: “I’ve put a message out on Facebook to let people know what has happened and asking anyone with any information to get in touch.”

If anyone has any information about the theft they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.