STAFF at a not-for-profit shop in Aberystwyth have been left angered after discovering six thefts of donated items from outside the premises in just one week.

The manager of CRAFT, based at the Station Buildings on Alexandra Road, has called the thefts a “kick in the teeth” for hard-working staff members.

Sharon Thomas, who oversees nine paid staff at the shop – which as well as selling on donated items, also gives goods to local charities and to help furnish homes for vulnerable people – said that people who donated items will be “shocked” to find out that they are being stolen on a regular basis.

In the past week, thieves have made off with items including a flat-screen TV, a bicycle, a strimmer, a pressure washer, and bags of clothing.

Sharon told the Cambrian News that CCTV footage showed one group of three arriving “organised” in the early morning with a trolley and recycling bags to rifle through donations left outside.

She said that many of the people seen on CCTV stealing donations are known to her.

Two of the incidents were perpetrated by the same person, Sharon added.

The CCTV footage of the six thefts has been passed on to Dyfed-Powys Police, who are investigating.

“This spate of thefts is really hampering what we do,” Sharon said.

“It’s getting out of control – people need to understand these are donations, not free for anyone to pick up.

“We take people on trust, just as those who are donating do.

“We all need to be able to trust people, it’s very sad that this is happening.”

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