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Thieves steal charity boxes

Jo Rostron
16/11/2005

OWNERS of a newsagents targeted by thieves say they are sickened by the latest break-in when charity collection boxes were taken.

Thieves stole the Poppy Appeal box on Remembrance Day and one for Springhill Hospice. Both were due to be collected this week and contained well over £50 each.

Anne Byrom, who owns Summit Newsagency, on Bury New Road, with husband David, said: "How can they stoop this low?

"They were clearly boxes full of money people had donated for good causes."

The latest attack, the third in the space of 10 days, happened on Sunday night but it wasn't noticed that the collection boxes had gone until Monday morning.

Anne said: "With it being Remembrance Sunday people were putting in money all day, so it was full to bursting.

It should be going to those who have suffered for this country, not to line the pockets of thieves.

"It is sickening. I'm sure people who put into those boxes are as appalled by this are we are."

Previously, cigarettes, spirits and cash have been taken.

Anne added: "Pinching from us is one thing but to do it from charity is even worse.

"My son Marc is a sergeant in the RAF and has served in Iraq and Afghanistan, so this is something close to our hearts."

In addition to the charity boxes, thieves also took tools belonging to the builders who are carrying out work to extend the shop.

Due to the spate of thefts alcohol has not been replaced and the cigarettes are removed from the premises at the end of the day.

Work on the roof, where the thieves have gained access to the building, has now been completed.

Anne is hoping that anyone who has information about the culprits will come forward.

She added: "The money that people kindly donated should be going to help people.

"I hope that this pricks the conscience of those who know where those boxes are or who did this to tell the police."

• ANYONE who can help is asked to contact Heywood police on 0161 856 8587.