A GENEROUS music store has brought a smile back to the face of a Teignmouth lad whose guitar was stolen.

Matthew Clarke, 12, of Haytor Close, was devastated when he lost his beloved bass instrument after he left it outside W H Smith to see off a friend on a bus.

But after reading of his plight, Teign Music decided to donate a new guitar to the youngster.

Co-owner Phil Fray said they knew how he must be feeling after the theft.

'It is not nice at any age to lose an instrument. The story touched us, and we were happy to present him with a replacement.'

And a delighted Matt, who attends Teignmouth Community College, added: 'Teignmouth Music is now my most favourite shop in the world.

'I had my guitar for a year, and really missed playing it. Now I am back strumming again, and I will certainly be more careful where I leave this one.'