Good Morning Britain viewers were left disgusted by a story involving a 100-year-old war veteran when they tuned into the latest show. The ITV news programme was back on air on Wednesday morning (July 20) with Ranvir Singh and Ed Balls back at the helm.
During the show, the hosts were joined live in the studio by Jan Strangryciuk who reached his centenary milestone earlier this year. But rather than talking about his inspirational life, Jan was on the programme after he was struck by callous thieves and robbed of his war medals, sentimental jewellery and thousands of pounds in cash.
Poland-born Jan and his wife were targeted at their London home by three men who claimed to be from a water company. But this was all a ploy and they ransacked the elderly couple's home. "It was a horrific shock," Jan told Ranvir and Ed. "I thought the people who committed crime probably have more respect for my old age," he also said.
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"For your old age, for your property, for your public service, your military service, for your medals, they had no respect at all," Ed interjected, clearly horrified by the story.
Jan was joined on the show by his friend George Byczynski who has set up a GoFundMe page to try and help give them back the money that was stolen which at the time of writing had attracted for than £20,800 in donations. Ranvir explained to viewers the money which had been taken was savings for a trip back to Poland.
George said: "They [Jan and his wife] had been planning a longer stay in Poland and they collected some cash, unfortunately, the robbers took that. It just really hurts here [his heart] when you read about it. Also, reading the story of Jan, a living legend." He added: "He lived in Argentina when the war started and he just thought he had to go and save his country, save Europe and fight for freedom. An incredible person."
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The community has since rallied round to try and replace Jan and his wife's stolen cash but as Ranvir said: "It’s really about the medals isn’t it? I mean the money can be recovered and people can be generous but the loss of those medals is something that’s very important to Jan and his entire family."
George did say that while Jan's military medals had been taken, the most important ones were hanging in his wardrobe and the thieves didn’t find them. He said: "British people, Polish people, people from all around the country are paying in now to get a new security system and get him a better holiday in his homeland with his wife and family."
GMB viewers were soon flocking to social media to share their anger on Jan's behalf. @EmmaHainsworth6 tweeted: "That's disgusting that. Some people are just cruel horrible people #GMB." @wine_oasis echoed: "#GMB disgusting the 3 men who stole this war hero's medals and other items."
@SallyPrice4 shared: "Poor Jan, living legend, some people are so bad! God Love Him #GMB." @amoola_83 wrote: "Imagine risking your life for this country and this is how society repays you. Sad times! #gmb." @DEE_J_RIZZO added: "Almost in tears watching this. So sad!!! Thanks for the good advice @edballs and @ranvir01 to not let folks in, it's alright to say no. My dad was watching this and will take this advice on board."
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