Treetops Hospice centre damaged by thieves

Thieves broke into the centre through a ground floor window, leaving glass on the floor

Burglars have temporarily halted work at a Derbyshire charity's bereavement centre.

The Treetops Hospice centre in Sandiacre, which also contains a shop, was broken into overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday.

As well as three laptops and cash being taken, many of the centre's private records were opened and scattered.

The shop has reopened but the centre has been forced to cancel about 20 counselling sessions.

Thieves broke into the Sandiacre centre through a ground-floor window.

Second attack

Staff member Karen Cook said the centre had been "completely and utterly devastated".

She added: "There was glass all over the reception area and the place was wrecked.

"It was really upsetting. To have a place that is a safe haven for people who are grieving prompted a lot of anger and tears."

Treetops Hospice offers care for people with life-limiting conditions such as as cancer, multiple sclerosis and motor neurone disease.

It has 11 shops and a day centre, offering a range of services including home support.

The day centre in Risley was targeted by burglars last October, when cash was taken and furniture damaged.