A CHARITY shop which has been subjected to mindless acts of vandalism is, with the help of local businesses, fighting back. Last month the Reporter revealed that the Cancer Research UK shop on King Street, Saffron Walden, had appealed for help to beef up

A CHARITY shop which has been subjected to mindless acts of vandalism is, with the help of local businesses, fighting back.

Last month the Reporter revealed that the Cancer Research UK shop on King Street, Saffron Walden, had appealed for help to beef up its security after a spate of slashings to clothes on sale in the store.

Now, two local companies have come up with offers to donate security systems to the shop.

Manager Lisa Drinkwater said: "We would like to take this chance to say a big thank you to Carol and Phil Willis from Electronic Security Plus LTD and Saffron Security.

"This is a fantastic boost for the shop. We really feel now that we are doing everything we can to keep the store safe, secure and fundraising."

The CCTV system was installed in the store on Friday and Ms Drinkwater believes it will deter any future attacks on the store.

Since the beginning of October, a total of nine coats, and other items, worth a total more than £145, have been slashed.

Every item in the shop that is ruined by vandals deprives the charity of vital funds that would be put towards cancer research.

"It's desperately sad that a charity shop should have to worry about this kind of crime," said Ms Drinkwater. "Our supporters go out of their way to donate to us to make a difference to cancer research; when we are faced with incidents such as this it shakes up our supporters and volunteers terribly."

To help recuperate funds lost from damaged goods, retailer Adnams Cellar & Kitchen Store in Market Street, Saffron Walden, raffled some expensive bottles of wine and raised £247. People have also been supportive by bringing in even more donations into the shop.

The new digital surveillance system will act as a deterrent to vandals and be able to provide evidence of any crimes to the police.

Anyone with information about these crimes should contact Saffron Walden Police Station on 0300 333 4444.

For more information about Cancer Research UK visit their website at www.cancerresearchuk.org/shopping