A children’s charity has been left devastated after being targeted by thieves just hours before an important fundraising event.

Staff at Demelza in Sittingbourne say they were "absolutely appalled” to discover around £1,000 worth of equipment had been looted from their Easter trail and craft fair site this morning (April 12).

The charity, which is hosting two fundraisers at its site in Rook Lane this weekend, says its sound system and other electrical equipment were taken from a large marquee.

Staff say it had been set up in the grounds of Demelza’s new Hill Farm site, opposite the existing buildings in Rook Lane.

The marquee had been secured, they say, but on arrival they discovered the thieves had gained access and taken the items from inside.

The equipment was funded by a regular Demelza supporter, who said he’s devastated by the theft.

Demelza’s deputy director of fundraising, Laura Smyth, said: “We’re absolutely appalled.

“To steal from anyone is awful but to steal from a charity which is clearly preparing to host a fun family event is just unthinkable.

“It’s a blow to all of our wonderful supporters who are so generous in the different ways they help Demelza, to our staff and volunteers who have worked so hard to stage these events and to the families that are coming along to enjoy them and to the children and families that Demelza supports.”

The charity has reported the incident to the police.

Those with information are being urged to call 101 and quote reference SP-36301-25-4646-04.

The events are still going ahead this weekend.

Today’s Easter trail and craft fair is sold out but there are still some tickets left for tomorrow’s event (April 13) on the charity’s website.

More information on Demelza’s Spring appeal can be found here.

Laura added: “If you’d like to support Demelza, our spring appeal is still running until the end of the month and thanks to a generous match funding pledge, all donations will be matched pound for pound.

“Every donation we receive makes a big impact on the lives of children with serious or life-limiting conditions and their families who use our services.”