A farming charity that reported more than £7,500 of equipment stolen in a break-in has pleaded with thieves to return the items anonymously.

Spadework, an organisation in Offham that provides care and support for adults with learning disabilities, says the theft happened in its garden centre on Tuesday, February 23.

One of the items reported missing was a generator which police say was taken between 5pm on Tuesday and 7.30am on Wednesday.

In a statement online, the charity, which is based in Teston Road and has been running for 36 years, described the situation as 'hurtful'.

It continued: "It is hard when any burglary happens anywhere, but when it happens to a charity that has served the community for the last 36 years it feels particularly hurtful.

"The hurt is not always just about the financial value of the stolen items. Our staff and volunteers have worked tirelessly through all of the challenges that the pandemic has thrown at us.

"We have worked hard to be here for the community, helping local people to remain connected in these difficult times. Although our trainees are not on site, we know that when they hear about this break-in it will add to their anxieties.

"If on reflection whoever took these items would like to bring them back, please let us know and we will open the gate for you..."

"We have chosen not to fundraise to replace the specific items, however we are actively exploring our options.

"We would like to say a very big “thank you” for the kindness that has been shown to us by so many people who have been in touch having heard this news. Your words mean a lot to all of us at this time.

"We still have many challenges ahead of us with the pandemic, but we will continue to be here for the community and our trainees.

"If on reflection whoever took these items would like to bring them back, please let us know and we will open the gate for you, so you don’t need to cause any more damage. You can remain anonymous.

"We’d just like the items back and to post a story with a happy ending."

This is not the first time the charity has been the victim of a break-in.

Just before Christmas in 2017, the charity's cafe and computer rooms were ransacked in the early hours, with burglars smashing two windows and a door, causing more than £500 of damage.

But nothing was taken and, after a clean-up operation, the Teston Road charity was able to honour its Christmas dinner bookings.

Officers are appealing for witnesses or anybody with information to call the appeal line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/30489.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, by calling 0800 555111 or using the anonymous online form on their website.

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