A good Samaritan has replaced £260 stolen from a pensioner by an intruder who barged into her home.

Readers of The Argus were shocked by our story about Grace Wilks, 79, who lost part of her finger after she challenged the bare-chested thug.

Brighton businessman Chris Ede, a partner in the Videostar video and game shop chain, got in touch with The Argus within minutes of reading the story and offered to replace the stolen money.

Miss Wilks had been saving the cash for a holiday with her sister at the Coombe Haven holiday centre near Hastings.

She lost it all after opening the door of her Brighton flat to a man on Sunday evening.

The intruder forced his way past her and began ransacking her small home.

At one point she tried to prevent him from opening the wardrobe but her finger became trapped in the frame as the thug wrenched it open in his search for cash.

Despite the pain, Miss Wilks continued to tell the robber to get out of her home. He found £260 and calmly walked out of her ground-floor flat with the words: "I have got what I wanted."

After calling the police, Miss Wilks was taken to Royal Sussex County Hospital for treatment where surgeons were forced to remove the top part of the little finger on her left hand.

Miss Wilks, with her hand still heavily bandaged, was in tears as she spoke of the attack.

Mr Ede said he had to help after reading about her ordeal.

He said: "I was shocked to read what had happened.

"We do some charity work and it is obvious brave Grace is a deserving cause.

"I just don't know how people can take advantage of someone in this way. I hope she can now go and enjoy the holiday she deserves."

Miss Wilks' brother, Edward, said: "Grace is still very shocked at what happened and is still recovering. I am keeping a close eye on her.

"She is overwhelmed at this very nice gesture. This kindness will help her get over the ordeal.

"She has been constantly talking about the money and whether she will be able to go on holiday.

"It is her 80th birthday on Tuesday and this kindness by Mr Ede and Videostar will make it a real birthday for her."

Police are searching for a man aged 40 who is white and fat.

At the time of the theft he was wearing just a pair of trousers, shoes and a glove on one hand.

Anyone with any information should get in touch with Detective Constable Sam Smith at Brighton police station on 0845 6070999.