Thieves target charity twice in two weeks

A sustainability charity is appealing for donations after two break-ins in as many weeks.

Vision 21's van was broken into overnight on 5 April. Thieves also targeted the charity's Reclaim furniture shop on Lansdown Industrial Estate, Cheltenham, in the early hours of 14 April, and stole a card reader, a sewing machine, tools and two bikes.

James Cooke, CEO, said: "This is a real blow to our small team and volunteers who work tirelessly to promote a more sustainable Cheltenham. But we're determined to keep going, and we're asking the community to stand with us."

Gloucestershire Police said enquiries are ongoing and anyone with relevant information should contact them.

Vision 21 operates Reclaim, a recycled furniture shop, as well as repair cafés, and environmental educational sessions to help people prepare for the challenges created by climate change.

While Mr Cooke said nothing of great cash value was taken, he said it was "a real shame" that Vision 21 had been targeted twice.

The charity has now upgraded its security.

Until 29 April, donations made to Vision 21 will be doubled by the Big Give Green Match Fund, but the charity is not just asking for financial help.

"If anyone is able to donate anything like tools or a sewing machine to us that they know isn't going to be used, that would be fantastic too," Mr Cooke said.

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