Limavady pensioner tells robbers '˜I forgive you'

A 74-year-old charity worker who was robbed on her way home from bingo in Limavady says she forgives the two males involved in the incident.
Frances McIntyre.Frances McIntyre.
Frances McIntyre.

Frances McIntyre was walking from bingo along Market Street on December 17, 2014 when the robbery occurred.

The Foyle Hospice volunteer was not physically injured in the incident, however, her glasses case was taken and she was left badly shaken.

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Two males have been convicted of the robbery, and sentenced to 20 months each.

Frances said she is satisfied with the sentences they received.

“I do forgive them,” said Frances. “I hope they learn from what happened. I hope what happened to me doesn’t happen to anyone else because it isn’t very nice. Everyone should be fit to walk the streets and feel safe.”

Frances said she was touched by a letter of apology from one of the defendants.

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“I thought it was very nice what he said, and I was very touched by it. I hope he sticks by what he said in the letter,” said Frances. “It’s done and dusted now. I don’t have children but I know everyone wants the best for their children and they teach them to be good. We don’t know why people do the things they do some times.”

Frances, a loyal Manchester United fan who admits she is “bingo mad”, said the incident was distressing but, she said, out of the experience came so much good.

She said she has been overwhelmed with the kindness and messages of support from people, and she was over the moon when Caskie Opticians replaced her glasses. Long time friend and neighbour, SDLP councillor Gerry Mullan said: “It is only that Frances is so strong, and has had good support, she has been able to cope with this. Any kind of attack on the elderly is despicable and can leave people scarred for life.”