Hundreds raised for Whitehaven Yodel driver allegedly robbed of parcel

[TrueBlueTerrier]

https://www.newsandstar.co.uk/news/2478 ... ed-parcel/

HUNDREDS of pounds have been raised to support a ‘kind’ and ‘genuine’ delivery driver following an alleged robbery while he was dropping off parcels.

Zoey Lewthwaite set up a GoFundMe page following the incident at Windermere Road in Whitehaven on December 5, just before Yodel driver Anthony Lyons was about to deliver her parcel.

The 56-year-old from Workington was allegedly robbed of a parcel and a Santa hat he was wearing to spread joy to customers while out on his round. Mr Lyons also lost the Fitbit watch he was wearing during the incident and it was later found smashed in the road.

Miss Lewthwaite said: “He [Mr Lyons] was delivering my parcel. I was tracking it and noticed he was on Windermere Road for ages.

“The next minute, my phone rang. He said, ‘I’ve got some bad news. Your parcel has been pinched.’

“I went to the end of the road to see him. When I went down, police were there. He was quite shaken up.”

The fundraiser for Mr Lyons has now reached nearly £800 after Miss Lewthwaite initially aimed to raise £150 to replace the Fitbit.

Touched by the generosity, Mr Lyons has agreed to a new watch and a Christmas jumper. Beyond that, he has selflessly requested the remaining funds go to charities in Whitehaven.

Miss Lewthwaite said: “I’m going to order him a new Fitbit and a personalised Santa hat. He only wears it to make people happy.

“He’s lovely. He would do anything for anyone. I chase him round for parcels all the time. He’s really good with the kids. He’ll always text you where he’s put your parcel.

“He’s just a kind, genuine man. That’s why I’ve done it. He’s chuffed. He’s been nearly crying.”

The remaining funds will go towards items for the children’s ward at West Cumberland Hospital and support for the South Whitehaven Youth Partnership.

A spokesman for Cumbria Police said: “Our incident 162 of December 5 was reported at 6.47pm.

“Officers attended and arrested two men on suspicion of robbery.

“Kevin Sinton, 25, of no fixed address was charged with robbery and remanded to appear at Carlisle Magistrates’ Court.

“The second man was released with no further action.”

A Yodel spokesperson said: “Our drivers are at the heart of everything we do, and we take instances of this nature extremely seriously. We are giving Tony our full support, whilst the authorities carry out an investigation."

To donate to the fundraiser, go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/get-tony-a-new-watch