A CARING couple who turned their home into a cavalcade of Christmas colour and celebration have been left heartbroken after thieves stole the collecting tin in which they were collecting money for Cancer Research.

But the callous theft has not dampened the determination of Martin Coda and his partner Mo to carry on – they say the lights will be back on tonight (Saturday, 21 November).

Yesterday Thurrock Nub News reported on the efforts of the couple at their home at 246 Seabrook Rise, Grays, where they have festooned their frontage – and that of happy neighbours – into a Christmas celebration with thousands and thousands of lights and decorations.

Martin has even decorated his car, which is now festooned with lights.

But last night the mood was darkened when a pair of young boys attended their home, ostensibly to make a small donation but it turns out they were checking out where and how the collecting box was attached and a short time later, while no one was outside, they returned and broke the box off its fixings.

Mo said: "We heard a noise and came out to see them hanging about outside and then when I turned around I saw the box had gone. To be honest it's made me sick to my stomach, I barely slept last night and I feel so bad that someone would stoop to do this when all we are doing is trying to raise a bit of Christmas cheer and raise money to help save the lives of people who have the dreadful cancer.

"I just can't believe it but we will carry on. We have had so many messages of support this morning and people have already been round to make donations to help make up for the loss, which was probably around a £100, the tin was full!"

Martin said: "In the first instance I thought let's take it down and stop, but then I thought we have been doing this for three years and nothing like this has happened before and we are not going to let them beat us.

"We will be switched on tonight!"

For those who can't get to see Martin and Mo's light's other than via the internet and our video, Thurrock Nub News has set up an online page so you can donate on their behalf to Cancer Research. You can donate here