Callous thieves target Rye disabled centre

The break in was discovered on Friday morning when staff arrived to find the floor covered with crumbs and a Nintendo Wii console, they had raised money to buy, gone.

The thieves also stole games and left a radio blaring out.

It is thought that they forced patio doors to gain entry.

ARRCC is a well loved charity that offers care and support for disabled adults in the Rye area, providing day care and activities.

It is based at the Rye Memorial Care Centre.

Irna Mortlock, from the charity, said: "We could not believe it. Staff, and the people who use the service had been working so hard to bake cakes and prepare food for a garden party we were holding in Rye on Saturday, and they just ate everything, leaving crumbs everywhere.

"We had fund raised to buy the games console and had only had it for a short time.

"It was very popular with people here as it uses motion sensors and is easy to use. They loved playing it.

"The users were very upset by this. Whoever broke in knew what this centre was, it is very obvious and part of the Rye Hospital."

Peter Coleman, who heard about the break-in this week, said: "These people are the lowest of the low – how can you do that to vulnerable people. These thieves are nothing but animals.

"This charity does such important work in the Rye area and is so well used and appreciated by people. For this to happen to them beggars belief."

Staff at the centre made a massive effort on Friday by starting to bake again from scratch so they would have food for Saturday's Garden Party.

The good news is that the event was a great success in the end and raised 400 for the charity.

Police are appealing for information on the break-in. If you can helkp call 0845 60 70 999.