A TEENAGER who stole charity money intended for sick children has returned the collection.

A tub containing cash was taken from outside Ray and Sheila Robinson's home in Thorntree Gardens, Middleton St George, near Darlington, on Thursday.

It contained nearly £50 raised for Butterwick Children's Hospice by the couple's display of Christmas lights.

They began the annual collection five years ago because of the care the hospice gave to Mr Robinson's sister.

Since then, they have raised more than £1,500 and were devastated when they discovered this year's collection had been stolen.

However, their son, Johnny, 45, and grandson, Paul, 17, turned detectives to track down the culprit.

Mr Robinson said: "It was a village effort really, because word went around the kids who hang around here. Everyone knew who it was and we had a name within ten minutes."

Paul went to see the 16-year-old, from Darlington, who had taken the money and it was dropped off behind Mr Robinson's house at teatime on Friday.

He said: "It has put us all on edge and it is worrying knowing there are thieves around you, but there was an excellent response from the village."

Mr Robinson has decided not to press charges.

PC Anne Wraith, of Darlington police, has warned the teenager about his conduct and spoken with his parents.

She said: "Mr Robinson was pleased to get the money back and, with it being the season of goodwill, he has decided not to take any further action.

"It says a lot about Mr Robinson that he can be so charitable when someone has done something like this to him."