A POLICE officer said he was “sick to his stomach” after a burglary at a children’s charity shop.

Volunteers and staff were left to clean up the mess at the Barnado’s shop on Dodds Lane, Gwersyllt, after raiders stole donated goods, money and equipment.

Insp Paul Jones, who covers the Wrexham North policing division, said officers were looking at CCTV and forensics in a bid to track down the culprits.

He said: “It’s absolutely outrageous and I am sick to my stomach that some callous individuals could take money from such a worthy cause.

“Anybody can understand that Barnardo’s is a charity for vulnerable children.

“Anybody who steals from them is despicable and I’m astounded the levels that some people will sink to – it’s a disgrace.

“Please can anybody who knows anything at all about this get in touch with us as we are determined to catch the culprits.”

Marie Williams, Barnardo’s retail area manager for North Wales, said: “This incident has made me very sad as the shop recently celebrated its first anniversary of trading when we thanked all the staff and volunteers who have worked very hard to make the shop a success.

“I am sure the local community which has been so supportive of the shop will also be saddened by the news that Barnardo’s has had this setback.”

Anybody with information about the burglary, which took place overnight on Thursday, February 11, is urged to contact the police on 0845 607 1002 or 101.