PENSIONERS who had saved for a year to go on a trip to Durban have had to give up their holiday after they were swindled.

The group of elderly people on the West Rand said their Christmas had been spoilt after the trip organiser allegedly disappeared with their money.

The pensioners from Mohlakeng, near Randfontein, said they each paid R1,050 for a four-day trip to Durban, and were part of a group of 57. Children paid R850.

For the elders, this would have been their first visit to the sea.

Prudence Matlawe, who was to have travelled with her children and grandchildren, said the cancellation had left her with a heavy heart.

"What is even more disappointing is that everybody had packed up and was ready to go, only for the trip to fail at the last minute. It was heartbreaking seeing the sad looks on the children's faces."

She said they did not suspect that the man would run away with their money.

"Last year he organised a trip for us to Ngonyama Game Lodge in Krugersdorp. So when he approached us with the 'package' to Durban, it was an easy decision for us to make. Besides, he seemed like a very nice person."

Elisa Mogorosi was the hardest hit. She paid a total of R7,600 for herself and her children.

"I am so heartbroken because that is a lot of money."

Matlawe said: "On Sunday, he sent a text message saying he was on his way to Durban to sort out some minor problem where we had been booked to sleep. He then called on Monday saying he had some financial difficulties and that was the last time I heard from him."

When Sowetan called the man, who made off with about R48,500, his phone was off.

Matlawe and the rest of the holidaymakers said they just wanted to be reimbursed .

"He has spoilt our Christmas and now the only thing he can do is pay us back. That money could have been used for many other things."

Randfontein police spokeswoman Captain Appel Ernst confirmed they were investigating a case of theft.

This article was first published in the printed newspaper on 20 December 2012