DAYS before their wedding, Michael Kwiatkowski and Alana Phillips' home was burgled. More than £1,000 of their savings for the big day were taken.

This would have been a miserable experience for any couple. But for Michael and Alana it was truly heartbreaking. Michael has cancer, and only has months to live. He and Alana wanted more than anything to enjoy married life together for whatever time they are given.

In the space of a lunchtime, this dream was stolen by thieves who never spare a thought for their victims.

So it is uplifting to report such a wonderful response from the other end of humanity's spectrum today. Generous readers have donated hundreds of pounds, and a wedding photographer has offered his services for free, to ensure the marriage goes ahead as planned.

Thanks to you, Michael and Alana can now concentrate on wedding plans again. When they exchange their vows they will know that they have the good wishes of a city behind them.

Updated: 10:47 Tuesday, March 12, 2002