Walton Lea charity left heartbroken after raiders steal valuable tools

VOLUNTEERS and staff at a Warrington charity which helps adults with learning disabilities have been left heart broken following an overnight burglary and the theft of valuable tools used for making Christmas gifts.

Raiders broke into the furniture and woodwork departments at the Walton Lea Project, stealing wood cutting tools worth an estimated £1,000.

Without the tools volunteers and service users will not be able to make specialised Christmas gifts as they approach the busiest time of the year.

The workshops were targeted about three weeks ago causing damage but nothing was stolen.

Trustee Viv Lacey placed a notice on the door explaining the distress which had been caused but this did not deter burglars returning and stealing two bench saws.

These are used to help create handmade gift boxes and other items including their ever popular log reindeers, which are sold from the charity’s premises.

Viv added : “There is a mix of anger, frustration and upset at our Walton Lea site, where our furniture and woodwork departments have been broken into.

“Not only has damaged been caused to both buildings those involved in this crime have stolen much needed tools that cost approx £1000.00, thus causing distress to beneficiaries and staff and robbing us of the ability to make and sell much wanted items!”

The charity has been gearing up for their busy time of the year and is set to have a a special Christmas weekend on December 2/3, including wreath making workshops.

Anyone who can help the charity can call 01925 860143 or contact them via their facebook page https://www.facebook.com/waltonleapartnership/