Burglars close shop (From Barry And District News)

Burglars close shop

A BREAK-IN to a charity shop has caused it to be closed down because asbestos was disturbed by the criminals.

Mind on Main Street in Barry was broken into on Tuesday September 7. Nothing was taken during the raid, but the thieves smashed through the roof and pulled the ceiling down, disturbing some asbestos cement.

As the substance is dangerous the volunteers are not allowed to work in the kitchen.

Regional manager for Mind in South Wales, Tina King said: "We had to close the shop for safety reasons. We must put our volunteers' health first. They are vital to us and put so much effort into the shops. Many of the volunteers are elderly but give up so much of their time."

The criminals did not manage to get into the main shop area because the could not force the door from the kitchen.

Roof tiles were removed which have to be replaced. The asbestos ceiling will cost £1,000 or more to make safe.

Tina said: "We will have to find the money out of funds which should be ploughed back into the charity. This is terrible for us as we will be losing money while we are closed."

Manager of Mind in Barry, volunteer Sheila Harvey opened up the shop the day after the raid and found the mess. The criminals had left the kitchen in a terrible state.

Police have not charged anyone with the break-in as no suspects have been found. If anyone would like to contribute to help the charity pay for the damage all donations will be gratefully accepted. Contact Mind on 029 20227815.