An 11-year-old boy learned that honesty pays when he handed in ‘a substantial amount of money’ he found in a Sidmouth cash point – and received more than one thank you note.
Jacob Taylor ‘didn’t think twice’ about handing in the forgotten withdrawal and took it straight into the bank.
Owner Mike Brown, of Fleming Avenue, Sidford, made the blunder in a busy High Street on Saturday, and was so amazed to get it back, he gave the youngster £150.
“In this day and age, it was such an unbelievable act. He’s one in a million,” said the 55-year-old. “It’s a bit embarrassing – I took my card, but managed to leave quite a lot of cash,” said dad-of-two Mike.
“I was going to go round town and pay my bills. It would have gone a long way for me.
“Sidmouth is an incredible place. It really speaks volumes for his upbringing.”
Byes Lane resident Jacob said: “I was really surprised, I didn’t expect a reward. Keeping it didn’t cross my mind.”
Karissa, his mum, said: “It’s taught him a really good life lesson – it pays to be honest.
“You try to teach them morals, but it’s only when they’re out of the house that they’re properly tested. We’re very proud of him.”
Jacob plans to spend his reward on a laptop and, as a keen boxer, wants some new straps for his gloves.
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