BUS drivers clubbed together to help raise money for a 94-year-old woman who had £600 of her pension money stolen while she was shopping.

Brighton and Hove Buses staff at the Whitehawk depot raised £240 for Daisy Payne to help repay the money taken from her while she was shopping in The Broadway, Whitehawk Road, on April 6.

She had drawn the money out from the Post Office moments before in order to pay household bills.

Whitehawk depot senior supervisor Nick Stepney, who put up a poster in the depot asking for donations to the cause, said: “We’re a part of the community – same as the shops – so I thought it was really important we did something to help Daisy.

“I thought even if we each donated £1 then it would add up to something worthwhile.”

The money was made up from donations from the company, the Unite union and employees, including £50 from Mr Stepney.

Mrs Payne was presented with a cheque at the depot yesterday along with flowers, chocolates and biscuits donated by the Co-op.

It comes as traders, shoppers and residents in the area also donated to the cause raising almost £1,000 for her. Even Great British Bake Off judge Paul Hollywood has made a contribution after hearing of her plight, as reported in yesterday’s Argus.

She said she was touched by everyone’s kindness.

To donate to the collection visit gift shop Pack of Cards in Whitehawk Road or call 01273 607004.