Families charity reopens after weekend break-in

A charity which supports vulnerable families with young children has reopened following a break-in.

The Community Annex at The Spring Charity in Northampton was broken into at about 06:15 BST on Saturday causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

The charity reopened on Tuesday on a limited basis, with children's activities restricted to certain areas while cleaning for glass continues.

Charity manager Alice Hudson said the centre had welcomed children for a "stay and play" session, but they were restricted from the baby area because it was "completely covered" in glass.

The Spring Charity helps vulnerable families with young children aged up to five years old in Northampton, including Spring Boroughs, Semilong, St James and The Mounts.

A fundraising appeal has raised almost £800 to replace damaged doors and install additional security, including shutters and railings.

Hudson said the break-in had placed additional strain on staff, all of whom work part-time.

Her team had been picking through everything with a "fine tooth comb", she said.

"We're putting in a massive amount of extra hours because we want to be here for the community."

Emergency household support bags prepared for families also had to be dismantled, washed and rebuilt after being contaminated with glass dust.

Northamptonshire Police confirmed there was damage to internal and external doors in the venue. It has appealed for witnesses.

Nothing was believed to have been stolen from the site.

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