Club pledges £150 after poppy theft

A rotary club has come to the aid of a British Legion branch left devastated after poppy day collecting boxes were stolen by a callous thief.

The theft of the two boxes — reported in last’s night’s Chronicle — prompted an immediate response from Saddleworth Rotary Club.

Its president, Richard Bartlett visited the Saddleworth Royal British Legion (RBL) branch and promised a donation of £150 to boost its depleted funds.

Delighted RBL branch chairman Arthur Hinchcliffe said: “We are thrilled by this wonderful donation. It’s come as a real surprise.

“The loss of the funds has really upset all our members and locals, too. We can’t thank Rotary enough for their help.”

Mr Hinchcliffe (81), the club’s standard bearer, was with the committee and helpers counting the takings from the poppy appeal when Mr Bartlett arrived.

“We were all devastated by the theft,” he added. “It really has shocked our members.”

The thief took the boxes off the counters of two shops in Uppermill — The Cooperative Pharmacy and JW Buckleys bakers — the day before the Remembrance Sunday services.

The robbery was described as callous and uncaring by PC Mark Clough, who added: “Everyone is deeply upset by these thefts.”

Saddleworth Royal British Legion branch officials estimate there could have been between £30 to £70 in each box.

Mr Bartlett said: “The legion do a fabulous job for families and military personnel. We just wanted to make sure they were not the losers.

“Its an awful thing to do, particularly at such a sensitive time. Rotary is very much about helping and being part of local communities and we were delighted to make a contribution.”

Police are seeking an Asian man, 20-30 years of age, medium build, 5ft 5 ins tall, wearing a grey or black woollen hat, a large coat dark in colour, with an overall scruffy appearance.

Anyone with information should call 101 or ring Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555 111.