York: Love Cheese shop burgled three times in two weeks

Owner Jordan Thomson has been in business for eighteen months

The owner of a cheese shop and cafe which has been burgled three times within two weeks said it has left him "shocked and scared".

Love Cheese, on Gillygate, was targeted by thieves on the 25 February, 27 February and 5 March.

More than £900 was taken during the robberies and windows were damaged.

Police said a 34-year-old man had been arrested and bailed in relation to the incidents and two other burglaries at neighbouring Caesar's restaurant.

"I felt scared more than anything, it was a bit of a shock to the system," said Love Cheese owner Jordan Thomson.

The 30-year-old said he arrived at the shop on Monday 25 February to discover the first break-in.

"I went into the office and the packing peanuts we use were everywhere," he said.

"There was all the paperwork thrown all over the place. They had managed to break into everything and get cash."

The burglaries damaged four windows and a garden fence

Mr Thomson, who has owned the shop for 18 months, said: "We are a quiet a peaceful place to be most of the time.

"To think that someone has just been running riot in here is a bit scary."

A day later the shop was again targeted and Mr Thomson said he was "more shocked how it could happen in such quick succession".

A week later, while out of the city he received a call from the police about another burglary.

Mr Thomson said about £900 was taken in total which included the staff tips.

He has also had to replace four windows and repair a garden fence at the rear of the property.

Mr Thomson said staff tips were stolen in the burglaries

Mr Thomson said he wanted to thank people who had donated money to help cover the staff tips.

"The staff really appreciate it," he said.

"There were some very emotional staff members when they found out."

North Yorkshire Police said the neighbouring Caesars restaurant had been targeted on 22 February and 1 March.

A spokesperson for the force said: "I would like to reassure the business owners of Gillygate and its surrounding areas that we're investigating the break-ins thoroughly and will do everything we can to bring those responsible to justice."