Community members from Falmouth & Penryn have rallied together to support a resident after he had all his possessions stolen from his van.

Richard Austin, aka Ozzy, had his home of nearly 10 years broken into last week, all his possessions were taken and everything he valued was in the van, including clothes, valuables, bushcraft equipment and the log stove he used to keep warm, also some items with very sentimental value.

A fundraiser set up by his close friend Sarah Mitchell has raised over £1,000 to help Ozzy get back on his feet.

On the incident Sarah commented:

"You and I know how absolutely soul destroying this could make one feel, and wouldn't wish this to happen to anyone, especially those of great character and a warm heart.

"So I'm just asking if you do know Oz personally to give that kind gesture, even if it doesn't replace all the things he has lost, it will certainly warm his heart and give some hope of humanity.

"Being his friends I'm sure this will help keep his positive outlook on life alive. So let's come together as fellow friends of Ozzy, just to help a very loved friend out of a massive injustice."

Support poured in for Ozzy, one resident said:

"I echo the words Sarah has said concerning Ozzy and the mindless act of persons unknown stripping him of his home, let's all help him to set his home up again and have something good for him to celebrate he is an amazing man and to have that done to his home is cruel and senseless."

A second resident said:

"Ozzy hopefully peoples love will keep you warm this winter, along with another log burning stove. Peace out brother."

Sarah confirmed that Ozzy had since been staying with a friend, he was unaware of the fundraiser but "the generous support from his friends and the community is giving some comfort that he is not alone."

Click here to make a donation.

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