Children's stolen tent surprise

NURSERY children in Dereham have had their faith in human nature restored after they received an unexpected gift of a new tent for their camping play area to replace one that had been stolen.

NURSERY children in Dereham have had their faith in human nature restored after they received an unexpected gift of a new tent for their camping play area to replace one that had been stolen.

Last week, the Times reported that a tent nursery pupils had put up in their playground at Toftwood Infant School had been stolen after they had spent many happy hours creating a campsite area complete with cushions and logs.

But the same day the article appeared, the school had a visit from former youth and community officer John Brannan with a new tent for them.

Mr Brannan, who lives in Watton, said he and his wife had worked all their lives with children and realised how devastated the youngsters must have been.

'I had a spare tent which had only been used once and thought of all the kids who were now without one and decided to replace it,' he said.

'As soon as we saw the story we wanted to help because we know how much kids love tents and for theirs to be taken away so quickly was a shock.'

Headteacher Joanna Pedlow said they were all very touched by Mr Brannan's display of generosity.

'I would just like to say a huge thank-you to Mr Brannan; the children were extremely delighted to be able to resume their camping activities. This act of kindness was totally unexpected, but very much appreciated.

'I am so pleased to know that there are people like Mr Brannan around and would like him to know that this kind

deed has made the 26 children in our nursery very happy indeed.'

Anyone with information about the theft, which happened between 7pm on Friday, May 8 and 9.20am on Monday, May 11, should call PC Matthew Howes at Dereham police station on 0845 456 4567.