AN ATTEMPT by burglars to sabotage a nursery’s CCTV has backfired on them.
The raiders stole the closed circuit television’s memory disc when they broke into Holywell Child Care on Monday night, in the hope of escaping undetected.
However, nursery owner Debra Ratcliffe said there was a back-up system in place which has captured footage of the burglary and is now being examined by police.
Debra said it was shocking burglars would choose to target a nursery.
She has been running the business in Bagillt Road, Bagillt, for nearly 10 years and has never had trouble before.
The raiders made off with cash, a designer watch and camera. They also left a trail of destruction, including damage from climbing up on shelves, strewn paperwork and smashed glass.
“When I first saw what had happened I was so shocked,” said Debra.
“The CCTV footage shows they broke in at about 9.15pm on Monday. I think they may have some degree of knowledge about the nursery.”
Mrs Ratcliffe said she had been overwhelmed by the offers of help from parents following the burglary and also thanked members of staff who have been staying behind in their own time to help clean up.
Their efforts have played an important part in the nursery being able to remain open and serving the community despite the break-in.
“I am improving security, including the installation of extra sensors and having the skylight sealed off. The builders are here working in the snow,” said Debra.
Among the items taken was a watch worth £250 which Debra was storing at the nursery as a surprise birthday present for her husband David. The camera stolen was a new Polaroid worth around £150.
Debra stressed none of the children’s records were accessed in the burglary.
North Wales Police spokesman Kevin Evans said the break in had been reported and officers were investigating. If anyone can help with inquiries they are urged to get in contact through telephoning 101.