A WOMAN with terminal cancer says she has become a prisoner in her own home after “despicable” car thieves stole the key to her independence.

Cherry Anne Caseley has just months to live, and one of her remaining joys is taking her three dogs to Sevenacres Country Park with her husband, Richard.

But car thieves have stolen her only form of transport from the front of her home in Withins Lane, Breightmet.

Now the 57-year-old is appealing for the thieves to return the car, a blue Suzuki Vitara, so she can live out her remaining days in happiness.

She said: “It has taken my freedom away. I always looked forward to walking my dogs. It was the highlight of my day.

“The car was my lifeline. Richard took me to the doctor’s in it. Now I feel trapped. I feel like a prisoner in my own home.”

The car, which was only insured third party, was stolen in the early hours of October 27.

Sgt Stephen Baldam, of the Bolton East Division, said: “To steal someone’s property is a terrible act, but the fact that this has caused so much further upset to a very ill woman who is totally reliant on having a car makes it even more despicable.”

Anyone with information should call Astley Bridge police station 0161 856 5761 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.