THE net is fast closing in on Hampshire's meanest thief - thanks to Daily Echo readers.

Yesterday, we revealed the astonishing CCTV images of the brazen criminal stealing toys from a charity collection, despite knowing they were Christmas presents for sick children.

Several appalled readers immediately contacted us to say they recognised the thief, who had been compared to the Christmas present-stealing film character The Grinch, and one name cropped up repeatedly.

Although we can't publish that name for legal reasons, it has been passed to police who are following up the lead.

Officers thanked the Daily Echo and our readers for the tip-offs, and revealed they are expecting to take action shortly to apprehend the callous criminal.

The theft took place under the noses of staff at Pizza Hut takeaway in Shirley High Street, Southampton, while the culprit was pretending to wait to have his food order taken.

When their backs were turned he repeatedly leant over the counter and grabbed toys from a collection box before stuffing them under his jacket.

At one point he even asked workers whom the donated gifts were intended for.

However, rather than feel a pang of conscience, he simply snatched another teddy bear and fled the takeaway, swearing at a manager who tried to stop him.

As reported in yesterday's Daily Echo, the donated toys had been destined for children spending Christmas in the city's hospitals.

John Butler, an organiser of the Christian Information Directories Appeal, said the crime was despicable, adding: "It's the lowest of the low, stealing from sick children."

"I'm very saddened by this and can't understand why someone would do it."

The charity aims to collect up to 500 toys before Christmas, and has other drop-off points at The Crown pub in Shirley High Street, the Floral Shop in Shirley Road and Sainsbury's in Shirley precinct.

Officers are still keen to hear from anyone with information about the theft, who should call Hampshire police on 0845 045 4545.