BATTERED and bruised couple Carmela and Vitantonio Carelli have extended their gratitude for the overwhelming messages of support they have received since their ordeal.

The couple, who are in their 70s, spent yesterday at their Cheney Manor Road home recuperating with their family, as support from around Swindon began to swell.

Four men forced their way into the Carellis’ home on Sunday evening at around 6pm and savagely beat them in an assault which left the pensioners in hospital.

Cash was taken during the burglary and the four men responsible remain at large, as Wiltshire Police continues its investigations.

Their daughter, Maria Webb, an administrator of Gartons Road in Middleleaze, spoke on behalf of them at their home yesterday.

“We have been overwhelmed by the response and kindness of everybody that’s contacted us,” she said.

“A lot of friends and people through my own children at school have been passing on their messages and regards.

“People have been wanting to do all kinds of things for us and it has been overwhelming. We are so grateful and appreciate everything.”

Maria confirmed her parents were recovering, with the bruising now lifting, though they are still suffering from aches and pains..

Yesterday, the Adver launched an appeal to raise money for the unfortunate pair as a gesture of goodwill to reimburse some of the money taken.

Money has already begun coming in and another business has lent its support with the addition of another donation box in Rodbourne.

Swindon Advertiser:

 Carrie and Iain Grant of Grant’s Cafe

Carrie Grant and her husband Iain Grant, of Grants’Cafe in Rodbourne Road, wanted to throw their support behind a couple sharing their own little community.

“I just think it was awful, absolutely disgusting,” said Carrie.

“I have got a nan and grandad and to know this has happened down the road, and at six o’clock, it feels awful that someone could do that. It was all so close to home.

“My sister works here as well. She said she couldn’t believe how this would happen in Rodbourne.

“You have to feel for the husband too because he probably wanted to protect his wife, but couldn’t.

“Everyone (customers) has been disgusted by it with complete shock, not that we are not aware these things go on.

“For violence to be used on an elderly couple is appalling. The timing of it was shocking too, not that it isn’t shocking whenever this happens.

“I didn’t know them personally, but it’s because it all feels like a little community down here. I think I met her at the bus stop once, but I couldn’t be sure.

“We wanted to bring the community closer together. Hopefully something good can come out of something so bad.

“It’s nice to know people are looking out for them because they’re going to be scared at every knock of the door.”

Wiltshire Police continues to appeal to the public for information on this incident. Anyone who can assist should contact 101.

In a statement the family said: “Carmela, Vitantonio and the family would like to say a heartfelt thank you to all in the community who have provided such kind support and words of comfort during this time.

“We would like to thank the Advertiser and the police for their continuous updates of events that may assist in bringing any information forward that can help with the investigation.”

HOW YOU CAN HELP
You can give money to support the Carellis at the following locations:

  • Baileys News, Ferndale Road
  • Costcutters, Cheney Manor Road
  • Grants’ Cafe, Rodbourne Road
  • Esso, Cheney Manor Road
  • Bakers Arms, Beechcroft Road
  • Swindon Advertiser, 100 Victoria Road, Old Town

If you are a retailer and would like to help with our appeal by displaying a collection tin, please call 01793 501310.