A WIDOWER who lost gardening tools when thieves ransacked sheds used by his late wife has been supplied with new items.

Ray Watts, 69, made the heart-breaking discovery at the plot on Pantile Hill in Southminster just three days after his wife Adrienne Watts was buried.

They had tended the two plots together prior to Mrs Watts’ death.

Mr Watts, of Vicarage Meadow, said the thieves had broken through secure bolts and got away with power tools including a mower and Wilkinson Sword items.

After the Standard reported Mr Watt’s story Wilkinson Sword came forward to offer him two tools free of charge.

He took delivery of the garden fork and garden spade last week.

“I would like to thank Wilkinson Sword for their generosity in donating the tools – they will be of great use,” he said.

Nick Hills, general manager of Wilkinson Sword, said: “We were saddened to read about what had happened to Mr Watts recently so wanted to get in contact to express our condolences.

“We hope he gets some enjoyment out of the new tools after the terrible time he has had of late.”

The break-in happened between noon on November 8 and 11.45pm on November 15.

If you have any information, call police on 101.