Thieves have stolen toys given to a toddler who is fighting cancer.

The books, teddies, toy cars and puzzles were to cheer up James Smith after each chemotherapy session.

His tearful mother Jaqi, 32, said: "I can't believe anyone could stoop so low as to steal from children."

The toys were in a white hospital plastic sack inside a black Rover car belonging to Jaqi's friends Jamie and Liz Sneddon, which was parked outside their home in Park Drive Close, Denton, near Newhaven.

The thieves smashed a rear window and among the toys taken was James' favourite teddy called Doggy.

James, two-and-a-half, was diagnosed with leukaemia on Christmas Eve.

He and his mother left their flat in South Coast Road, Peacehaven, on Boxing Day and have not returned since.

James was treated first in Southampton General Hospital before being transferred to the Royal Alexandra Children's Hospital, Brighton.

Jaqi, who is staying in her son's room at the Royal Alex, said: "It was like a knife through my heart when they told me it was leukaemia and there was a chance James would die. Then to have his favourite toys stolen was adding insult to injury.

"We had given him a prize for being brave each day he underwent chemotherapy.

"I was in tears and was so angry when I found out. After all James has been through, it is so low."

She and James' father Mark Smith, 29, are hoping the thieves will return the toys.

Jaqi said: "I hope they have a conscience."

James is expected to continue treatment for three years and has been given a 75 per cent chance of pulling through.

Mrs Sneddon said: "James is innocent in all this and yet he is the one who has to suffer.

"He is such a lovely, sweet boy who was always very cheerful before he became ill. Nowadays he gets quite down but sitting on his bed, playing with his toys, always used to cheer him up.

"I feel terrible about what happened and would give anything to see the toys returned."

Sussex Police are investigating. A spokesman said: "This was heartless and I would urge witnesses or anyone with information to come forward."

Call police on 0845 6070 999.