ST Rocco's new furniture shop was raided on Friday as thieves stole electrical items and damaged furniture.

The new shop, which opened three weeks ago at Bridge Foot, suffered damage to the doors and doorframes in the attack.

While no money is kept at the shop, small electrical items were taken.

A spokesman said: "This has been a real blow as it will delay the shop's official opening, which was being planned to take place in a few weeks time.

"Now repairs will have to be added to the things to do.

"Businesses kindly donated items necessary to increase security at the shop and the public have been very sympathetic.

"Several people have expressed their outrage at thieves targeting a charity shop.

"Money raised by the hospice's seven charity shops is a vital part of the annual income which provides care to patients and their families."

Volunteers rallied round to open the shop on Sunday and make deliveries.

To donate good quality furniture to the charity or to find out how you can be a volunteer call 650800