A DYSLEXIC student who can cope with full-time education only by using a laptop computer has been dealt a cruel blow after it was stolen in a mugging.

Ben Waddington, a student at Runshaw College, will now have to re-do a year's worth of work in just three weeks to complete his computer course.

The laptop allowed Ben to read words that he found difficult to decipher on paper. He said: "At school I was classed as disruptive and no-one knew I was dyslexic until I was 17.

"Since being diagnosed, I realised that like a lot of dyslexic people, things are much easier for me to read on a computer screen.

"My mum bought the laptop for me in January and I've done all my work on it as it was much easier that way.

"I can't believe it's been stolen. Some of the work was backed up but most of it was just on the laptop so I'm just going to have to try and do it all again."

The £500 computer was stolen as Ben walked home from a friend's house in Park Road, Chorley on Tuesday, May 25, at 10.15pm.

It was ripped from his shoulder and, although Ben gave chase to the thief, he managed to escape.

Ben, of Springfield Road, Chorley said: "It's of no use to anyone else because you need passwords to access any information on it.

"I just hope someone has the decency to give it back. It's worth a lot more than just money to me."

A spokesman for Chorley police said they are investigating the incident.

If you know anything about the incident call Chorley police on 01257 269021 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.