Staff at a Harborne charity shop have been left devastated after thieves smashed their way in, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage and stealing a laptop and donation tin.
The break-in occurred at the Headway store on Harborne High Street on June 16, with the criminals causing significant damage to the front door and ransacking the shop.
Headway, a charity that supports people rebuilding their lives after brain injury, estimates the cost to replace the laptop and the glass front door will be around £3,000.
Forced to Close
The shop was forced to close on the following day for a clear-up operation, resulting in a loss of a day's takings.
David Byrne, Head of Retail at Headway UK, expressed his devastation at the incident. 'We are all absolutely devastated,' he said. 'We were forced to close the store on Tuesday and have also lost a day's trading on Wednesday as well.'
'It was distressing to our team, who work really hard to make the shop a welcoming space, with each sale powering vital services to support brain injury survivors.'
Despicable Act
Mr Byrne condemned the thieves, describing their actions as 'despicable'. 'We’re gutted to have had our laptop stolen, which helps us process stock and inventory,' he added. 'It is difficult to believe that someone could be so cruel as to vandalise and steal from a charity shop.'
Anyone wishing to support Headway Harborne is welcome to call the shop at 0121 426 5979 or visit 58 High Street Harborne.
