VOLUNTEERS at a small charity near Chichester have been left heartbroken after thieves smashed their way in and made off with thousands of pounds worth of equipment and generous donations from the public.
After demolishing the security lights, the thieves forced their way into the office The Apuldram centre in Appledram Lane South and completely ransacked the premises, turning out every drawer and taking computers, telephones and laptops.
They then turned their attention to the safe, which had been set in concrete and bolted to the floor.
After smashing it away from the floor, the safe was taken whole and loaded into a vehicle outside.
The safe contained £800 cash as well as the charity's credit cards and vehicle keys.
ChocolatesThe thieves took anything else they could including batteries worth £25.
Several boxes of chocolates which had been brought to thank the charity's dedicated volunteers and a teaset brought by a supporter for use in the centre's coffee shop, were also taken.
Founded 20 years ago by a group of parents, the charity provides learning opportunities in crafts and horticulture for adults with special needs.
General manager Jane Kilby said the break-in had shaken everyone and people were very down.
Mess left"They took everything they could - even the chocolates. Anything of value they could find they took and left it all in a complete and utter mess.
"We had a brand-new computer system which hadn't actually been installed. It arrived the week before and was still sat in its box when it was taken.
"We are a small charity and it's just so heartless.
"The money taken out of the safe had been donated by various people and organisations over the past two weeks and was raised over Christmas for us, especially for service users."
AppealAnyone with any information about the burglary on Monday, January 25, should contact Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999, quoting crime number WC2/005099/10.
Anyone who would like to help the Apuldram Centre following the break-in should call 01243 783370 or email
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