THIEVES broke into the Sue Ryder charity shop in Lavant Street, Petersfield, yesterday (Sunday) evening and stole donations from supporters.

The donations are worth hundreds of pounds to national healthcare charity Sue Ryder and it will take weeks to replace the missing items. But it’s not just the missing stock it’s also the damage to the back door that needs repairing and the stress and upset to staff at the charity shop.

Sue Ryder Petersfield shop manager Judith Nettle said: “It is very saddening to think that people would steal from a charity shop, but to find that they would go out of their way to break in and steal stock that have been kindly donate is beyond words.

“It is very disappointing that anyone would target a charity shop that raises money for to care for dying people and their loved ones who are already going through the most difficult time of their lives.

“Support from the local community has been amazing and we want to thank you all for your kind words. If customers could continue to show support by giving donations to the shop, this will help us to recoup some of the money lost through this horrendous incident.

“Many of our staff are from the local community and give up their time for free to help us raise this money. To see that stolen from us is very upsetting for us all.”

To support the shop visit 2 Lavant Street, Petersfield, Hampshire, GU32 3EW, or call 01730 233353. All support is welcome.