Charity shop says team are devastated by burglary

A Nottinghamshire charity which helps sick children and babies has said its team has been left devastated by a break-in.

The Children's Air Ambulance (TCAA) store in Newark was targeted overnight on 2 January.

A spokesman said the thieves caused extensive damage to doors, a safe and a till and also stole the day's takings, believed to be around £500.

The charity estimates the total cost of the break-in including repairs, loss of earnings and stolen items is between £4,000 and £6,000.

TCAA provides specialist air transportation for critically ill babies and children in need of urgent care.

It relies on public donations to fund its operations, as each mission costs £3,600 on average.

Retail Area Manager, Simon Trzopek, said: "This is a devastating blow to our team, and it is heart-wrenching to know that thieves have targeted a charity store dedicated to supporting lifesaving services for children.

"The damage is significant, not just financially, but emotionally.

"Our hardworking staff and volunteers put in so much effort to run the store, and to see it targeted in this way is truly upsetting."

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