Charity left counting cost after break-in

A thief left a trail of destruction after breaking into a community hub in Park Wood.

The raider smashed through a security shutter and double window to gain access to Fusion Healthy Living Centre in Cobb Way.

The charity, which was set up in 2003 to help those living on Maidstone’s largest social housing estate, runs a café, offers computers for public use, and hires out rooms for meetings, corporate events and parties. It also hosts mental health courses and acts as a base for health and wellbeing services. Neighbour Donald Wright said: “Fusion looks after the needs of people living in Park Wood and the surrounding area. “It is a charity and relies heavily on funding from Kent County Council and donations.

“How someone can stoop so low as to steal from an organisation that is trying to help others beggars belief.”

The break-in occurred at 4am last Thursday.

The thief was spotted in the act and the police were called, but arrived just too late to catch the perpetrator.

Although only a tiny sum of money was stolen, the damage, disruption and prospect of increased insurance premiums have had a significant effect on the charity.

A spokesman for Fusion said: “Fusion Maidstone was broken into in the early hours of July 4 and considerable damage was done. The centre however is open as usual and all activities are operating as normally.” Anyone with information that could help the police should call the appeal line on 01622 604100, quoting reference 46/12741/19.