A charity boss has spoken out after thieves broke into a hospice for terminally ill patients and stole a television and digital cameras.

The thieves targeted an office at the Pilgrim’s Hospice off the A20 Hythe Road in Ashford over the weekend, and staff found the break in at 7am this morning.

Charity chief executive Cate Russell said: “The theft is upsetting, for thieves to target a hospice in this way is a difficult thing to understand.

“As a charity we rely on the generous donations we receive from the people of Kent and on the hours spent by volunteers tirelessly fundraising for us so we can continue to be there for local people.

“We are here to care for people with a terminal illness and their families at a time when they need us most.”

The thieves targeted the hospice office building, which is an area locked away from the ward itself, but Ms Russell said that the charity’s security prevented the thieves taking anything else.

Despite this, the estimated loss to the charity is several hundred pounds. Ms Russell added: “The police have not recommended we take any more security steps at this stage.

“Our priority is to reassure any patients and families in our care. We will take any steps necessary to ensure they have peace of mind.”

Patients and families in the care of the hospice have access to a 24-hour advice line and are urged to call if they have any concerns.

Police are investigating the theft and Det Sgt Matt Smith has appealed for information to track down a man in his 20s who was seen in the area on Sunday evening.

The man is described as a slim white man with stubble, wearing jeans, jumper and a woolly hat. The police are also looking to track down the owner of an orange Citroen Saxo.

Anyone with information is asked to call the police on 01843 222289 and quote crime reference number ZY/4834/17 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.