Burglars ransack kids’ play centre
THIEVES ransacked a Southport play centre before making off with cash raised for Comic Relief.
Louie Gaffney, who owns Playtown, on Ocean Plaza, said the burglars had all but destroyed the centre during the early hours of Tuesday.
He said: “They emptied the tills, ripped out the vending machines, and took money we raised on Red Nose Day.
“They also stole what we believe to be thousands of pounds worth of stuff, things like Dyson vacuum cleaners and all sorts.”
He said the thieves ripped out CCTV wires and stole the hard drive to cover their tracks, but he believes the incident happened at about 4am.
He is offering a cash reward for anyone with information.
Thanks to the hard work of his staff, he said, the centre was able to open as normal yesterday. He continued: “It was a rough 24 hours but we did it.
“Our shutters and doors are fixed, everywhere is tidy and with a brand new and more secure CCTV system.
“I can’t thank our customers enough. What’s happened has been massive upset and shock to us, but they have all made us more determined to get up and keep going with their amazing support and lovely comments. “It’s really picked us back up. “We’ve worked as hard as we possibly could to reopen so we wouldn’t have to upset any little ones. Any bookings or par- ties will go ahead as arranged.
“Thanks to everyone again, from the bottom of our hearts.”
Hundreds of people visited Playtown’s Facebook page.
Anne Roome wrote: “I was so saddened to hear about this. So bad that we live in a world where a children’s play area gets trashed for a couple of hundred quid.”
Gill Shaw wrote: “My little girl loves this place so was shocked to see what they did here. I hope they get caught and dealt with properly! Onward and upwards and business as usual... good for you.”
Joanna Stevenson wrote: “Well done. The kids love Playtown and we shall see you later in the week.”
And Natalie Hall wrote: “So sorry and maddened to see what you’ve gone through. Your positive reaction and determination is inspiring.”
If you saw anything or have information, call Southport police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.