Staff at Sussex charity left devastated after thieves stole tools worth around £20,000
Staff at a charity in Sussex have been telling ITV Meridian's Rachel Hepworth how the theft of valuable tools is impacting them.
Staff at a charity in Sussex, which supports vulnerable adults, say they're devastated after thieves stole tools worth around £20,000.
The Aldingbourne Trust near Chichester supports hundreds of people with learning disabilities, giving them skills and training.
Thieves broke into the workshop over Christmas, taking vital equipment.
Jason Brummell. Aldingbourne Trust
Jason Brummel, from Aldingbourne Trust says: "It's upsetting as much as anything else, the people you support have a great love for the place.
"We're a charity for disabled individuals, robbed at Christmas.
"With a few bits and pieces that we were left behind, we've managed to keep going. We are determined not to be beaten by it"
The break-in and theft, discovered on Christmas Eve, has shocked everyone at the Aldingbourne Trust.
The Trust supports 300 adults with learning disabilities and autism, teaching skills and offering work at the charity's visitor centre, with its farm, cafe and nursery.
Each year the timber yard repurposes 300 tonnes of wood which would otherwise end up in landfill.
The Charity is planning a fundraiser but says the best help people can give, is by visiting them and supporting their work.
Lizzie Senn, Communications manager, Aldingbourne Trust
Lizze Senn, from Aldingbourne Trust, says: "It's a shock to have this happen at any time of year, but I think especially at Christmas is a massive blow. We're in quite a tough spot right now."
Sussex Police are investigating to identify any suspects.
They are asking anyone with information to get in touch quoting serial 452 of 24/12.
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