HEARTLESS thieves forced their way into a charity shop over the weekend causing hundreds of pounds of damage.

Thugs broke into the Headway store on Bradshawgate in Leigh before damaging and ransacking the property and stealing around £400 in cash.

The charity, which helps people rebuild their lives following brain injury, has been left to pick up the pieces.

Shop manager Jan Naylor said: “We’re absolutely devastated.

“I came into work on Monday morning and I just couldn’t believe it, they have ransacked the place.

“They broke a window, the office door and smashed the till.

“It is difficult to believe that someone could be so cruel as to vandalise and steal from a charity shop.

“The floor was covered in bags and clothes and all sorts.”

The Bolton News:

A damaged window at the charity shop

The Bolton News:

A damaged door lock at the store

The greatest cost to the charity will be repairing the damage that was done when thieves forced their way into the building – money that should have gone towards supporting brain injury survivors.

Now Jan is asking for residents to show their support by volunteering at the shop and donating much-needed stock.

She added: “There are lots of opportunities to get involved and we welcome any and all help at this difficult time.”

Anyone wishing to support Headway is welcome to contact Jan on 01942 602108 or visit the charity shop at 96 Bradshawgate in Leigh.

If you have any information about the burglary contact police on 101 quoting reference number CRI/06LL/0000991/20.

Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.