AN 88-YEAR-OLD blind woman whose bedroom was ransacked by a raider as she lay in bed has been overwhelmed by gifts from well-wishers.

Lily Leah said she thought she was going to die when an intruder allegedly demanded money.

And her story touched many residents, who have come together to offer her flowers, chocolates, and support, in time for a happy Christmas.

Accrington Lions presented the widow with flowers, and offered her the backing of the charity club to improve security at her home.

And an anonymous donation of flowers and a large box of chocolates was delivered for her to the Lancashire Telegraph office in Blackburn.

Frail Lily said she could not believe the kindness of people.

She said: "Thank you to everyone so much. I am so surprised. Thank you.

"I don't know what to say. It has restored my faith in human nature. It has made my Christmas. It is just so nice of people to cheer me up."

The burglary, at 3.40am last Saturday, was the third time in the last 18 months that the widow's Church home has been broken into. Lions president Tony Clarkson said the club would be looking at providing Lily, who is registered blind but has slight vision, with safety devices in her home to improve security.

The Lions plan to hold meetings in the new year to discuss various ways they can provide support for Lily, and her family.

Mr Clarkson said: "This is the sad reality of what has become our modern society. But we hope to remind Lily that good things do happen.

"One possibility is making her a member of the Lifeline Scheme, which includes being connected to a special telephone emergency hotline."

l A 22-year-old man has pleaded guilty to burglary, at Hyndburn Magistrates, and was remanded in custody to be sentenced at Preston Crown Court in January.