A volunteer has described her devastation after callous thieves stole two newly-refurbished benches from a hospice garden.

CCTV cameras at Pilgrims Hospice Thanet in Margate captured a man and a woman carrying the wooden seating to a van parked on the main road shortly after 9pm on Tuesday.

The hospice's services manager, Jon May, says the benches had been repaired in an effort to improve seating for patients and their families while using the gardens.

“We are all at a loss as to why people would want to steal from our charity," he said.

"Just last week, a volunteer from Saga repaired and gave the benches a fresh new look in blue paint, they looked wonderful.

“We rely on volunteer support from organisations such as Saga, and hope this unpleasant incident will not detract from the amazing work they do for us now and in the future."

Kayley Canning, a claims handler for insurance company Saga, spent eight hours restoring the benches.

The mum-of-one said of hearing about the theft: "I was shocked, saddened and devastated.

"This is a heartless crime. A thief is a thief, whether he or she steals a diamond or a cucumber. But to steal from those who are living with incurable illness? Lowest of all low."

She added: "There is no better way to connect with the world than doing small acts of kindness. I gave back, now it's time to get them back to the rightful owners."

Since posting news of the incident on Facebook, the charity has been inundated with offers from community members and local businesses to replace the benches.

Deputy CEO Jon Sillett said: “We can’t thank the people of Thanet enough for their generosity and very kind words of support. We have accepted a generous offer to replace the benches."

Witnesses or anyone with information is urged to contact Mr May by emailing jon.may@pilgrimshospices.org or calling 07710 764 820.

The theft has been reported to the police.