THERE is no such thing as a victimless crime ­— as today’s report of the latest break-in at a furniture show shows.

Some people who steal from businesses try to mitigate their actions by saying it is only the insurance company that is affected, or that big companies can afford it.

But this crime has had a very personal and direct effect on a family trying to earn an honest living.

Donna Burrell was enjoying Christmas Day with her family when the festivities were interrupted by news that her Global Interiors business in Astley Bridge had been broken into again.

It is the fifth burglary at the Blackburn Road business in six months ­— and Miss Burrell’s Christmas was ruined as she dealt with the fallout of the latest break-in.

But she is determined that the family-run business will return stronger ­— despite being setback a total of £20,000 by the break-ins.

Not only does she have to pay for expensive repairs to the smashed window and lost stock, she is now bringing in 24-hour security to protect the shop.

The repeated thefts and increased cost of protecting the business could threaten the livelihood of Miss Burrell and her family, and everyone associated with the store. While the theft of two lamps worth £300 is not insignificant, the wider damage and loss are much greater than that, financially and emotionally.