Laptops stolen from Bolton Under-5s playgroup

2:50pm Sunday 16th November 2008

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THIEVES stole children’s laptop computers and sweets after raiding a north Hampshire community centre.

Staff from Bolton Under-5s playgroup discovered that the Beddington Centre, in Riley Lane, Old Basing, had been broken into when they arrived for the morning playgroup session.

A pair of laptops used by children at the playgroup – which is a registered charity – as well as sweets belonging to a Brownie group had been taken.

The playgroup’s mobile phone had also been stolen and up to £20 from its petty cash tin was missing.

A locked cupboard had been forced open and a bag of straw, used for children’s art and craft activities, was spread all over the floor Sarah Crowdy, playgroup chairman, said the facility had to shut for a day while police conducted investigations.

Mrs Crowdy, whose three-year-old daughter Abi attends the playgroup, said: “A lot of parents work, so they had to make alternative arrangements.

“To steal from a charity is about as low as you can go. We are all a bit cross.”

The Beddington Centre is run by volunteers and is used by community groups as well as for private functions.

Peter Edney, media and corporate communications officer for the north and east operational command unit of Hampshire Constabulary, said: “We would urge anyone with any information to contact us on 0845 045 4545.”