Tools stolen from charity
TOOLS and equipment belonging to a Bridgendbased charity have been stolen.
But since the raid at Bryngarw Country Park a week ago, the B-leaf project has received more than £1,000 in donations.
A CHARITY devastated when thousands of pounds worth of equipment was stolen has been “overwhelmed” by the community’s response.
The Bridgend group that supports people with disabilities has received more than £1,000 in donations less than a week after essential tools and equipment were taken.
On Wednesday last week, workers at the B-leaf project arrived at Bryngarw Country Park to find their storage containers had been broken into.
Police are now investigating after hedge cutters, strimmers, leaf blowers and crush cutters were taken.
After the incident, the group, which carries out gardening and ground maintenance work, said it has received countless messages of support.
Senior trainee support officer Paul Davis said: “We have had tremendous support from the community and local businesses, it’s incredible. So far the fundraising site has raised nearly £1,200.
“One trainee’s mother and sister had a win at bingo and bought a mower, strimmer and hand tools.
“These are not people that can afford it but wanted to help.”
Funded by Anwen Cultural Trust and Bridgend council, B-leaf helps 30 trainees to run a nursery and garden centre.
The group also holds a number of private and council land maintenance contracts for areas including Bedford Park.
Mr Davis said trainees were left upset after being unable to carry out jobs.
He said: “The staff team were upset about it but it’s the trainees that have been affected.
“We’re coming up to the busiest part of the year for contracts. We’ve just had to make do.”
A spokeswoman for South Wales Police said: “South Wales Police is investigating a burglary at B-Leaf Horticulture, Bryngarw Country Park, Bridgend, which took place sometime overnight between Tuesday, April 24 and Wednesday, April 25.
“Anyone with information should call police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 55111 and quote reference 1800143978.”