A HEREFORDSHIRE charity shop has been hit by heartless thieves who smashed a window to steal goods donated to fund research into cancer.

Thieves snatched items including six perfume bottles, two silver-plated photo frames, two glass cube paperweights and two pewter perfume bottles.

PC James Alcock described the theft at the Cancer Research Charity Shop in Ross-on-Wye as 'despicable' and 'unbelievable.'

He said: "This property was stolen from a charity shop trying to raise much-needed cash for a very worthwhile cause. It is unbelievable that someone could carry out such a despicable act."

Police say traces of blood were found at the scene and believe one of the offenders injured themselves in the theft between midnight and 1am on Saturday, November 29.

Upset

Shop manager Margaret Gilbert said the theft had upset the volunteers who work at the charity store.

"A lot of people are upset about it, not only because Christmas is just around the corner," she said. "We do quite well for the charity but the cost of a replacement window is about £200, so this is something of a setback."

The shop would welcome any donated goods, except electrical items, and Ms Gilbert emphasises that it is business as usual at the Market Place outlet.

PC Alcock wants to hear from any person with information about the theft or anyone who believes they could have been offered the stolen property.

Anyone with information, should contact Ross Police Station on 08457 444888 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.