'Significant damage' in Chichester charity shop burglary

Callous thieves targeted British Heart Foundation in North Street last week causing significant damage to the rear of the shop and leaving staff without use of the card machine for a number of days.

The charity is assessing the total cost of the burglary and the damage caused.

Louise Harbour, regional director at the British Heart Foundation, said the cost will likely taken away from the charity's work.

“The recent break in at our Chichester North Street shop was extremely disheartening for the whole team, particularly as it delayed our reopening by two days, following lockdown.

“The break in caused significant damage to the shop and we are still assessing the total cost, which will sadly be likely to take money away from the BHF’s vital work. However, the response from the community has been fantastic.

“We’d like to thank everyone for their continued support during this time and especially for your patience as we get back up and running. If you’re having a clear out over the festive season, then do consider donating any good quality items to the shop.

"It’s thanks to our generous customers that we are able to continue trading and funding the BHF’s life saving heart research.”