BURGLARS have struck at a Fearnhead community centre for the second time in weeks.

Raiders stole kitchen and computer equipment from Padgate Community Centre, Fearnhead Cross, and left a trail of destruction on Thursday.

The centre's users were sickened by the mindless attack after discovering the break-in.

"This is absolutely disgusting," said parish and borough councillor Mick Curran, adding: "This centre is serving the community and people have invested a lot of time and money into improving these facilities and then people do this."

The centre has been repeatedly targeted in the past 18 months, with the latest attack occurring just weeks after intruders had broken in and vandalised the kitchen and offices.

The culprits got in through the back door just half an hour after staff left the centre.

Once inside they kicked through an office door, stole petty cash and a laptop computer belonging to the youth service.

Adding insult to injury, a new coffee percolator and sandwich toaster, which had been bought with money raised by the youth club, were also stolen.

The items had been due to be presented to Kath Owen, the volunteer who runs the caf, as a welcome back gift following her absence due to ill health.

Mr Curran added: "It's just mindless. We are trying to do something for them to improve their lives and this is how we are repaid.

"It's been targeted several times and it's costing us a lot of money to keep replacing the items they've damaged, as well as doors and shutters, which are very costly. It's a real disgrace and we simply can't afford for this to happen again."

Sgt Simon Lowe, of Risley Community Action Team, said: "Police are continuing their inquiries to locate the stolen items and identify the offenders. Anyone with information should contact Warrington Police on 65222 or call Crimestoppers confidentially on 0800 555 111."