Charity box in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital stolen from Bamber Bridge hair salon

Rachel Whitehead, of Walton-le-Dale, returned to work at Relax Hair Beauty Yoga in Station Road on Tuesday to find that someone had broken into it over the weekend by throwing a brick through the back window.

The offender(s) did not take any equipment but stole a charity box in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital, which treats seriously ill children from all over the UK.

Rachel, who had only just reopened the salon to customers last week following lock-down, said: "It was certainly a shock because it was my first day back in after the weekend and I thought someone had left the cupboard doors open as there were a few vouchers on the floor. Then I saw a brick on the floor.

"We got off lightly because they could have taken our stock. But I feel sorry for the charity. There was probably about £20 in the box.

"It's the lowest of the low to steal from a charity. We have to look after vulnerable children, adults and animals, especially now when charities are struggling."

The 35-year-old, who has owned the business for three years, adds that it is a knock-back to be targeted by thieves so soon after returning to work and being unable to earn a living for four months due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

"My first client on Tuesday had to go home because I needed to ring the police," she said.

Rachel is now warning other businesses to stay alert, especially as many have struggled financially during lock-down and some have even been forced to shut their doors for good.

"I think it's extremely important to support local businesses, especially during the current times. Otherwise, they will go bust," she added.

"I want to warn people to watch out, be wary and put extra precautions in place, like a burglar alarm and CCTV - they do do the job"

Police are investigating the incident.

To make a donation to the Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity, please visit https://www.gosh.org/