THIEVES have brought misery to a sick little boy by stealing his 'lifeline' trampoline.

The trampoline, which belonged to a nine-year-old Ringwood boy who suffers from cystic fibrosis, formed an essential part of the physiotherapy treatment for his illness.

His mother, who does not want the family to be identified, described the theft as "disgusting" and said the vile act has left her son devastated.

The family moved house from Avon Castle in Ringwood to St Leonard's and had left the trampoline, which needed dismantling, at the site until they were able to collect it.

When they went back for it, the trampoline and its safety nets had gone.

Physical manipulation is a key element in the treatment of cystic fibrosis, and can stave off respiratory infections.

The boy's mother spoke of how the theft had changed their lives.

She said: "My son used to come home from school and bounce around on it and it was not necessary for us to do his physio manually.

"He can't do that now, so it's back to me banging him on the back for two hours a day.

"The trampoline made his treatment fun, rather than the tedious regime that we now have to go through every day.

"It made it easier for him to have a more normal life.

"Obviously, somebody spotted the trampoline and decided to help themselves."

The trampoline and safety nets were valued at more than £400 and would have taken thieves some time to dismantle.

Police are appealing for witnesses and for anyone with information to come forward.

The theft happened between 6pm on Thursday June 10, and 1pm on Saturday June 19.

PC Stuart Newman, of Ferndown police, said: "This is a despicable crime and I'm eager for more information.

"The family is naturally upset and this is obviously affecting their son's treatment.

"If anyone knows anything about this, no matter how trivial the information might seem, I urge them to contact me, so that we can reunite this young boy with his trampoline."

The trampoline is round and black with a red trim and approximately 20ft in diameter, with nets surrounding it.

It was being kept on land where the owner's house once stood, now a derelict site surrounded by builders' fencing.

The thief, or thieves, broke in through the fencing at the front of the site.

Anyone with information should call Dorset police in confidence on 01202 222500, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.