Salvation Army charity bags stolen in Telford

Hundreds of bags full of clothes donated to the Salvation Army by Telford people have been stolen by thieves, police said today, after clothing banks were smashed open and emptied.

Clothing banks at Morrisons in Wellington and Asda in Donnington were targeted between Thursday and yesterday.

Officers believe almost 2,000 kilogrammes of clothing, worth about £400, was taken.

A Salvation Army spokesman said today: "Individuals that vandalise our clothing banks and steal the contents have no regard for those we are raising money to help. Theft and vandalism threatens to damage the trust, goodwill and charitable spirit built up between the generous general public and organisations such as ourselves.

"We would encourage people to continue using our banks as incidents like this are rare."

Police spokeswoman Denise Wakefield said officers were looking at the possibility the same thieves had committed both thefts.

She said those responsible smashed open the locks and added: "This is an extremely unusual incident.

"It is rather sad to think the stolen clothes had been kindly donated by local people and we are very keen to trace the thieves responsible for these heartless thefts."

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 0300 3333000, or the Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.