Minstead Trust ‘overwhelmed’ by over £35k in donations from people and businesses after being devastated by major equipment theft at Minstead Lodge base

Donations of more than £35,000 have “overwhelmed” a New Forest charity after it was hit by a major theft.

More than 350 people and businesses answered the Minstead Trust’s call for help after an overnight raid on its Minstead Lodge base, where more than £50,000 of equipment was stolen.

As reported by the A&T, the charity’s users – who have learning disabilities – were left “upset and unnerved” by the break-in, which took place during the night of Wednesday 2nd October.

Entry was gained via the workshop’s main door, and the burglars made off with a Ford Transit crew cab, chainsaws, chargers, a mower, and a leaf blower.

Praising all those who had so far come forward to help, the charity said this was going towards covering a significant shortfall caused by the burglary.

As well as money, dozens of equipment offers were received, and local businesses have provided donations and discounts.

This included Forward Securities which donated new CCTV for the site, and B&Q supplied tools to cover some of those lost.

Security has already been strengthened and updated at Minstead Lodge.

Adam Dodd, Minstead Trust chief executive, said: “The response from our local community to this shocking theft has been hugely uplifting.

“We are so thankful to everyone who has helped us in this difficult time.

“We have been overwhelmed by the gifts and messages of support we have received from hundreds of people over the last week.”

He continued: “This was an unsettling and upsetting incident for the people we support, so for them to then see how much people value their work and place in society is very special.

“It is evidence of the special community that surrounds Minstead Trust, all working together to break down the barriers in society that stop people with learning disabilities thriving.”

Minstead Trust has supported people with learning disabilities for nearly 40 years.

Responding to the burglary, service user Liam previously said: “It’s not very good. We’re a local charity, they shouldn’t be stealing from local charities.

“When I heard about it I wasn’t happy, I was annoyed, frustrated and angry. It’s stopped us from using our machinery and doing our jobs.”

Those with information about the crime should contact officers via hampshire.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting reference 44240428764.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously at crimestoppers-uk.org or on 0800 555 111.

Donate to Minstead Trust at minsteadtrust.org.uk/charity/donate-today