Police investigating break in and Poppy Scotland collection theft at Ashers Bakery, Forres
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
CALLOUS thieves who stole a charity collection and trashed a local shop escaped with next to nothing.
Police are investigating a smash and grab at Ashers Bakery at 139 High Street which resulted in a broken window, damaged stock and the theft of a Poppy Scotland collection tin.
A police spokesperson said: "We received a report of a break-in to a premises on High Street, Forres, around 4.05am on Friday, October, 28.
"Enquiries are at an early stage and ongoing."
Store manager Kate Hardie confirmed the thieves smashed a pane in the window on High Street to get in.
She said: "The lady up the lane next door was on her way to work when she noticed and raised the alarm - she phoned our Nairn headquarters who called me at about 6.30am.
"I was here for 6.40am but wasn't allowed in while the police were investigating. I believe they've got their fingerprints and footprints. They are also checking CCTV at neighbouring shops."
She added: "We only started the collection on Wednesday - the thieves will be lucky if there was more than £10 in it. Our safe was untouched.
"The shop was left in a total mess - the thief or thieves trashed it, pulled everything off the shelves and from under the counter.
"It was a senseless crime. I hope they get caught."
