Heartless thief steals Santa display from Shotton cancer charity shop

A charity shop in Shotton has been targeted by a heartless thief who stole a Christmas window display.

The Cancer Research UK charity shop in Shotton fell prey to theft on Monday afternoon when it’s alleged a young female took part of the seasonal display, featuring Santa and his sleigh.

The display has been part of the shop’s festive tradition for over ten years, attracting passersby to the shop which sells pre-loved items to help fund life-saving research.

June McAnoy, a volunteer at the shop and a cancer survivor, shared the news with a heavy heart.

June, well known for her fundraising, earlier this year raised over £200 for Cancer Research UK, which was unfortunately also stolen, marking another blow to the charity’s efforts.

“It is with a heavy heart that I must inform you that on Monday, 27th November 2023, at approximately 12:49, the main part of our Christmas window display—Santa and his sleigh—was stolen,” she said.

“Many people, young and old from all age groups, walk past our shop daily. They love to come and see the window displays we create, especially during certain times of the year.”

“We have had the display for over 10 years now.”

“Those who know me are aware that I enjoy fundraising for Cancer Research UK.”

“Earlier this year, I raised over £200, which, regrettably, was also stolen.”

“As a cancer survivor, volunteering here and raising funds is my way of giving thanks to this wonderful community.”

[Volunteer June McAnoy] 

June also shared a description of the alleged thief, saying the shop’s CCTV system shows a young female with dark curly hair leaving the shop with the Santa and sleigh display.

Public reaction to the theft has been one of shock and outrage. Posting on the Loose Ladies Facebook Page, Kerry expressed disbelief, asking, “How low will some people stoop?” while Amanda and Wendy both labelled the act as “disgusting behaviour.”

One person referred to the perpetrator as a “sad human being” while Hazel called the theft “very, very nasty.”

Karen was particularly emphatic, stating, “How bloody disgusting, some people are vile.”

The community’s response clearly reflects a collective sense of anger and disappointment at the theft.

Any information can be passed to North Wales Police by contacting them on 101.