Good Samaritan helps teen

Sep 2 2010 by Debbie Hall, West Lothian Courier

AN autistic boy whose prized mountain bike was stolen has been given a new one – thanks to a Good Samaritan and the Courier.

Last week the Courier told how Alistair MacKenzie (14) was distraught after his bike was taken from outside his Craigshill home.

The teenager finds it difficult to socialise and make friends and can’t go out anywhere on his own.

Recently, however, Alistair had struck up a friendship with two boys from his school and because he has problems getting around, his mum and dad bought him a bike so that he could go and visit.

But the £185 bike was stolen last month, leaving Alistair upset and unable to leave the house.

However, after reading about Alistair’s heartbreaking story in the Courier a Good Samaritan got in touch with his parents and delivered a new bike.

Alistair’s plight had touched a number of our readers as other members of the public called our office to offer the teenager a bike.

Alistair’s dad Stuart said: “We got a phone call on the Thursday that the paper came out from the police to say an anonymous person had been in touch offering to donate a bike Alistair could use.

“I phoned the gentleman back and he came out that evening and delivered a mountain bike.

“He said he wanted to remain anonymous but we can’t thank him or the Courier enough for their kindness.

“If the story hadn’t gone in the paper then Alistair would still be sitting here at home with no bike.

“It’s wonderful and Alistair is delighted.

“We’ve over the moon with the generosity that’s been shown, it really does restore your faith in people.”