THIEVES have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to a Winchester youth centre in a raid on charities and outreach groups.

Doors and windows were smashed, CCTV destroyed and cash stolen from King Alfred Youth Activity Centre in Winnall in the early hours of Monday morning.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the break-in, which is thought to have taken place between 1pm on Sunday and 7.30am on Monday.

The building in Winnall Valley Road, home to Winchester Young Carers, Winnall Rock School and others, was being repaired this week by managing group Youth Options.

Costs are estimated at up to £4,000, but it's business as usual for the charities because the thieves only stole CCTV gear and petty cash boxes – despite the rock school owning guitars, amplifiers and other equipment.

Peter Brown, Winnall Rock School coordinator, said: "We got out pretty scot-free and we've actually not had any impact on our operations.

"Youth Options were great, they got some people in, they replaced our doors and we started operating and they ran lessons that afternoon. We will rock on regardless."

Nikki Crooks, Youth Options resource manager, said: “It appears that they were only after cash, of which they got a couple of petty cash tins, with max £50 in.

“Unfortunately in order to get this measly sum they have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage, mainly to doors and windows, the intruder alarm and CCTV was also taken in an effort to hide their identity and prevent detection.

“After a long day, we managed to get the centre secured and operational for all of the voluntary groups who operate out of the centre. It is a real shame that some thoughtless people decided to steal from their own community, taking from the young and vulnerable people who attend projects based within the centre. Potentially the money which would have gone to the participants, will now have to be re-directed to make the necessary repairs.

“This has been mindless damage which causes disruption, a potential loss of income and unnecessary stress to users of the centre, who might now feel unsettled."

Investigating officer PC Jonathan Earnshaw said: "The youth club is funded by charity and money for repairs will now have to come out of the charity's budget, which could have been spent on other projects in and for the local community.

"If you have any information or saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area during the time of the burglary please get in touch with us on 101 quoting ref 44150327434."

"Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where details can be left anonymously."