Thieves ransack home of running legend Jarra Jim, 95

The home of South Tyneside's favourite charity runner has been ransacked by a thief.
By The Newsroom
Published 18th Jan 2016, 15:08 BST
Updated 18th Jan 2016, 15:14 BST
Jarra Jim's home has been burgled by a criminal who stole 1.20 from a little pot he keeps on his coffee table.Jarra Jim's home has been burgled by a criminal who stole 1.20 from a little pot he keeps on his coffee table.
Jarra Jim's home has been burgled by a criminal who stole 1.20 from a little pot he keeps on his coffee table.

Jim Purcell, known affectionately as 'Jarra Jim' returned from a church service on Sunday to find three police cars outside his home in Falmouth Drive, Jarrow.

The 95-year-old's property had been ransacked by a thief who stole a safe containing insurance and other sentimental papers.

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The criminal also took £1.20 in loose change from a little tin pot the pensioner keeps on his coffee table.

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The safe was later recovered smashed in a nearby street. Officers were also able to recover the papers that had been scattered.

The burglary happened between 4.05pm and 5pm.

Jarra Jim is well-known for his love of running and his charity work.

•A 39-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of burglary and is currently helping police with inquiries.

Related topics:South Tyneside