Raiders stole laptops from charity store

Thieves raided a charity which helps young people, and stole laptops worth thousands of pounds.
Airedale Computers development manager Keith Sorrell.Airedale Computers development manager Keith Sorrell.
Airedale Computers development manager Keith Sorrell.

Airedale Computers on Stansfield Road, Airedale, was targeted sometime between 9.30pm and 10.30pm on Monday, February 29.

Securty camera footage showed the thieves cut through a security fence to get in. They stole number of laptops and a PC before heading off in a vehicle parked near the shop.

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Airedale Computers development manager Keith Sorrell said: “It is sickening when they are attacking charities. They knew where everything was and they were only inside for about a minute.

“They have taken laptops which would have been donated to charities in the area and these people really need bringing to justice.”

Airedale Computers is owned by the Chrysalis Youth Project, which offers training, apprenticeships and employment courses for young people and job seekers.

The project also works with local authorities, schools and pupil referral units to provide an alternative education for excluded children.

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Mr Sorrell said: “We recycle computers, refurbish what we can from the machines and then sell them.

All the profits we makes goes to the Chrysalis Youth Project. We give away lots of laptops to good causes like the air and sea cadets, and to people doing fundraisers. We were back up and running straight away and we won’t let what happened get us down.”

The thieves stole two new HP 255 G3 laptops, a Toshiba Netbook NB500, a Dell Latitude E6400 laptop and a HP Pro-book.

A HP HSTNN laptop, an IT Pro 10” Tablet, an ACER All-In-One PC and two gift box sets containing a keyboard, mouse and headset were also taken.

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Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident and to get in touch and to also contact them if they are offered laptops in suspicious circumstances.

Acting Sgt David Walker, of Castleford Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT), said: “These thieves have targeted a social enterprise which does a lot for local residents.

“The financial loss they have suffered will have a big impact on the money raised for charity and the availability of equipment for project work.

“The people responsible for this offence are affecting the quality of life and opportunities for young and vulnerable people in Airedale and should be brought to justice.”

Any witnesses should call Castleford NPT on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

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