The owner of a Cockermouth business who was distraught to find a charity box had been stolen from his premises made sure those in need did not miss out.

A thief stole the money, which was meant for the Alzheimer's Society, from Cockermouth Travel, on Main Street.

Owner Paul Cusack said: "The box had been on a desk for a couple of months and quite a bit of cash had gone into it.

"One day we noticed that the cardboard insert which holds the cash had gone missing and only the blue flower badges were left.

"We were unable to find out who had taken it.

"We didn't want the charity to go wanting so donated £50. Another customer, who had heard what happened, also donated £50."

The collection box had been put in the shop by the Cockermouth and District Soroptimists.

Co-ordinator Helen Lord, of Fletcher Street, Cockermouth, said: "We had put about 18 in various town businesses during Alzheimer's Awareness Week earlier in the year.

"We had only intended on leaving them there for the week but a few businesses, including Cockermouth Travel, were keen to keep them longer and get more money."

She said they were indebted to Cockermouth Travel for donating money.