by Peter Barnett

Money used to help look after hundreds of unwanted animals has been stolen at a break in at the TAG Pet Rescue shop.

The charity's furniture store in Northdown Road was also damaged by intruders who struck while two volunteers had left the building for an hour between 11am and midday on Saturday, January 16.

Debbie Channing from TAG, who described the thieves as "ruthless and heartless", said: "The burglars kicked open the back door of the shop and stole the contents of the till, a charity collection tin containing around £50, and two mobile telephones. They also attempted to take a bike but failed because it was locked.

"Damage to the rear door and frame will be very expensive to renew. We're a local animal rescue charity with no outside funding and rely entirely on money raised from our shops and kind donations.

"We also lost a day's takings while police and forensics dealt with the break in. They were very quick to attend and while they were taking details, a gentleman knocked on the door and returned our charity pot which he had just found disregarded in a road nearby and empty."

The money collected by TAG helps run its Pet Rescue Centre and pays for vet bills, food, transport and the heating of the animal pens.

Debbie added: "We care for around 200 unwanted pets from all around the area at any one time and our fundraising is critical. This theft has been a big blow, coming so soon after we had lead stolen from the roof that resulted in flooding inside the shop when it rained. We had to close for two days and throw away all the soaking wet goods."

• To find out more about TAG Pet Rescue, contact the centre on 01843 822931 or visit the charity's website.