A businessman has offered to replace the stolen garden of remembrance sign at St Peter's Church, Westfield.

Robert Ford, director of Frome Sign Co, which is based on Westfield Trading Estate, contacted the Somerset Guardian after reading how mourners paying their respects to loved ones had been left upset and angered after heartless thieves removed the large metal sign.

As yet the sign has still not been found.

Mr Ford said: "Like many people I was saddened and shocked at the front page news article detailing the theft of the church sign at Westfield.

"I would be happy to replace the sign free of charge, should efforts to recover the original prove unsuccessful."

Churchwarden Lynne Waton expressed thanks on behalf of the church to Mr Ford, who is also involved with Midsomer Norton Rugby Club.

She said: "It is a lovely offer. It would be great to be able to replace the sign.

"A lot of people have been saying how terrible the theft is but unfortunately the whereabouts of the sign is still unknown and no one has come forward to offer any information."

In another act of generosity, a couple from Midsomer Norton, who wish to remain anonymous, handed over a £200 cheque to Alexander's New Wheels appeal.

The appeal has been organised with the aim of raising £8,000 to pay for a wheelchair to help eight-year-old St Mary's School, Timsbury, pupil Alexander Jones-Grech get around easier.

Alexander has pseudochondroplasia, a form of dwarfism that affects his bones and joints.

Radstock and Midsomer Norton Lions Club has already donated £2, 000 towards the appeal.