THIEVES who stole a home kidney dialysis machine during a burglary have been described as despicable by police.

The Automated Peritoneal Dialysis Machine, worth around £2,500, was on loan to 62-year-old man from Hammersmith Hospital.

But between 1.30pm and 5.20pm last Wednesday thieves broke into the man's home in Cheyne Park, Copley Close, Hanwell, while he was out. They made off with a television, telephone, passport and the dialysis machine.

The victim, who needed to use the machine every day, is not in a life threatening position but will now have to use a temporary replacement to continue his dialysis treatment until a replacement machine is found.

A spokesman for Hammersmith Hospital said: "The machine was one from Hammersmith Hospital and the patient will be getting a new one shortly. He will not have to pay for the replacement."

Police do not know at this stage whether the machine was the main target for the burglars or if it was taken after it was mistaken for a computer.

Chief Inspector Stuart Smith, of Ealing police, said: "This was a despicable crime and we are eager to trace those responsible."

Call Ealing Crimedesk on 020 8246 9496

May 1, 2003 10:00