Chichester shop burglary - Suspect arrested by police officers on patrol

A charity collection pot was stolen during the early hours break-in at Present Surprise, a gift shop in South Street. Read more hereSussex Police has confirmed a suspect was quickly arrested.

A spokesman said: "Officers on patrol in Chichester city centre in the early hours of Sunday morning responded to an audible intruder alarm that was sounding at a business premises in South Street.

"On arrival at the scene, officers found the front door window of Present Surprise had been smashed and entry gained to the site.

"A 43-year-old man of no fixed address was arrested nearby on suspicion of burglary other than dwelling with intent to steal. He was released under investigation while enquiries continue."

The owners of the shop said the stolen charity collection box was for Sidlesham-based charity, The Cat & Rabbit Rescue Centre.

Its post on Facebook read: "If you do have any donations we will still be accepting them on their behalf.

"To be honest with everything that is currently happening in the world it does appear trivial but it is our livelihood and we rely on our customers’ support to put food in our dogs’ bowl!

"A break in affects so many things. Thank you for your continued support during these tough economic times."

Present Surprise will now be closed for the 'foreseeable future' due to the coronavirus pandemic

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