DISMAYED charity shop workers have voiced their anger after bags full of donated items were stolen before they had been picked up from outside people's homes.

By John Howard

DISMAYED charity shop workers have voiced their anger after bags full of donated items were stolen before they had been picked up from outside people's homes.

Gill Duncombe, manager of the Mind charity shop in St Matthew's Street, Ipswich, discovered that up to half their donated stock for the week had been stolen.

The organisation had dropped donation bags in the Bixley Road area of Ipswich, returning on Tuesday to collect the items left out for them.

But the clearly marked Mind bags had been collected not long before their driver arrived by unscrupulous thieves - who netted a haul of goods that could have included everything from jewellery and CDs, to books and clothes.

The theft is thought to have taken place between 10am and 10.30am.

Ms Duncombe said: “We have rural and town collections and these people targeted one of our town collections. I imagine the goods will now turn up at nearby car boot sales.

“These people turned up literally half an hour in front of our driver, picking up the bags left on the kerbside or by gates. The bags were clearly marked for us and we just can't believe it. You try not to think about it, but it is so unscrupulous.

“I would like to think that karma will get these people, if the police don't. We are a charity and these people probably are not desperate for a sleeping bag or a jumper.''

Mind is the leading mental health charity in England and Wales, with staff and volunteers working to create a better life for everyone who experience mental distress.

Lisa Miller, Suffolk police spokeswoman, said: “This matter was reported to us on Tuesday morning . A small light blue van was seen on The Australian and Broke Hall Estate in Ipswich, between 10am and 10.30am, collecting the sacks.

“It is despicable to think someone would steel items that have kindly been donated for charity. We would like to hear from anyone who may have information in relation to this incident.''

n Anyone with any information about the theft should contact Ipswich police officers on 01473 613500 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Anyone who would like to donate goods to the shop can contact staff on 01473 217357.