Children’s party threatened by cruel thieves

Grassroots. Safe loss about £600

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VANDALS who went on a wrecking spree causing thousands of pounds worth of damage at a community allotment in Failsworth have stolen funds meant for sick children.

A group of 10 youngsters affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in the Ukraine will visit the Grassroots Community Project, in Marlborough Drive, on Monday for a party on the site.

But thieves broke into a locked temporary building on the site sometime between 10.30pm on Monday and 8.30am on Tuesday this week and stole funds donated for the party as well as gifts for the children.

The culprits also smashed doors and windows, and stole flowers, hanging baskets and gardening equipment before setting off a fire extinguisher.

It is estimated that repairing the damage could cost thousands of pounds.

Police have taken DNA samples from the scene and are now investigating the incident.

Failsworth West councillor Elaine Garry said: “It’s devastating and heartbreaking for everyone who is involved, it’s just horrible.

“Some of the money was going to be used to press a load of apples to give the children fresh, healthy juice.

“It’s a nasty thing to do because Grassroots is a charity and has been working so hard. Members been selling things like eggs and honey to raise funds for the children and have been gathering gifts.”

Fellow ward councillor John Battye said: “It’s absolute wanton vandalism.

“They work so hard to make this facility available to everyone.

“What has happened is absolutely appalling.”

Councillor Garry is now urging the local community to rally round and donate funds and gifts in time for the party on Monday.

She said: “We would welcome any donations of funds or gifts in time for the party.

“I would also urge anyone with information to contact the police.”

A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information should call 101.

To make a donation contact councillor Garry on 07866-575 375.