Mugging victim Eddie Walters was having tests today to discover if his attacker had triggered his cancer.

The 71-year-old, who has leukaemia, was warned a fall or knock could activate his disease.

Eddie was shoved to the ground by a robber who snatched his wallet containing money for the rent on his bedsit in Kemp Town, Brighton. He suffered minor bruising in the attack.

Despite being in remission, Eddie has been warned he may have only six months to live.

He was having blood tests at hospital today and said: "I'm keeping my fingers crossed."

Meanwhile, donations continued to pour into The Argus for Eddie.

Many wellwishers were angry social security could offer Eddie only a £29 crisis loan which he will have to pay back.

A hat was passed round among staff and regulars at The Connaught pub in Hove Street, Hove.

Landlord Bernard Akehurst said: "After reading your story I organised an informal collection for Mr Walters and we raised just over £100.

"Hopefully this will enable him to return the insulting cheque to the DSS. We don't want repaying."

The Winner pub in Elm Grove, Brighton, held a similar collection.

A couple from West Worthing sent a small donation and a message saying: "It is not much as we are pensioners but we felt moved to offer a little help. He did not deserve what happened to him."

Billie Spencer-Manning, who lives in Hailsham and co-runs a takeaway in Lewes, said: "I cried my eyes out when I read your story and I was disgusted with social services.

"I don't mind if Eddie ends up with more than he lost. He deserves a nice Christmas."

Lloyds TSB Card Service held a collection and a couple from Battle have invited Eddie to their home on Christmas Day.

Eddie, a former manager with top hotels in Brighton, is now back in his bedsit after staying with his friend Patricia Hassell.

He said: "I had no idea there were so many kind people. It's wonderful."

Patricia said: "This has shown there are more decent people around than anyone realises."

Donations to The Argus Appeal can be sent to Elsa Gillio at The Argus, Crowhurst Road, Hollingbury, Brighton, BN1 8AR.