Generous Yorkshire Post readers raise more than £14,000 to help World War Two veteran Len Parry

The nation's most trusted newspaper set up the Just Giving Page on Tuesday to help 100-year-old Len Parry after burglars broke into his home in Skipton earlier this month while he was in hospital having an operation for skin cancer.

In just 24 hours, more than £14,000 has been raised thanks to generous donations from Yorkshire Post readers across the country.

Mr Parry, who fled Japanese soldiers after being taken prisoner in Singapore during the Second World War said: "I really don't know what to say, I am absolutely astounded. It is just incredible.

"There are some nasty so-and-so's out there but there are a lot more nicer people and this has restored my faith.

"It has made my day and I just feel so grateful."

As well as the money, which Mr Parry was going to use to pay for a new roof at the home he has lived in for 50 years, the safe also contained his cheque book, driving licence and passport.

Mr Parry's family told The Yorkshire Post the burglary had hit him hard and made him question whether he should relocate to a nursing home, despite being very independent and still driving and doing his own food shopping.

Journalist and Good Morning Britain presenter Piers Morgan donated £1,000 of his own money after hearing Mr Parry's story on Tuesday.

He said: "This is absolutely disgusting. What a shocking way to treat a great British hero. Let's get Len his money back. I'm in for £1000, who's with me?

The Yorkshire Post has also been inundated with messages of support for the war hero.

One person said: "I hope your equilibrium is restored not just by the donation of money, or condemnation of the low life who carried out this appalling act; but by the support and concern of your fellow human beings."

One person said: "My Granddad was also a Prisoner of War held in Singapore. I’m so very sorry that something so traumatic has happened to you after the brave service you gave this country."

Another said: "With much love from the daughter of a Burma Veteran who sadly left us at the age of 90. I hope these donations make this wonderful gentleman know how much love we are sending his way."

Mr Parry said he is going to donate some of the money to a number of local charities, which will be revealed at a later date.

Anyone wishing to donate to The Yorkshire Post appeal can do so by clicking here.