HIGH street shoppers came together to help stop a charity shop thief.

St Richard’s Hospice in Evesham was the target of multiple thefts earlier this week.

A man stole multiple items of clothing before members of the public alerted staff to his actions.

Dan Corns, commercial director at the charity, said: “We are really grateful to the members of the community who came to our assistance on Tuesday, after multiple items of clothing were stolen from our charity shop in Evesham High Street.

“We are saddened by the theft of these items which were on sale to raise funds towards our care to patients and their loved ones across Worcestershire.

“We have CCTV in store and have reported this incident to the police.

“If you have any information, please contact the police using crime reference number 22/101783/22.”

The shop on Evesham High Street is one of 18 belonging to St Richard’s Hospice throughout Worcestershire.

Supported by volunteers, the stores sell a range of items including books, furniture, bridal accessories, dresses, and bric-a-brac.

Next month, on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6, the Evesham branch will hold a pop-up vintage sale, offering a range of clothing and accessories from the 1930s to the 1990s.

All of the money raised goes directly towards the charity, which provides care for patients with serious progressive illnesses, as well as their loved ones and bereaved people.

The thefts in Evesham, which occurred at around 4pm on Tuesday, October 11, are now being investigated by West Mercia Police.

At the time of writing, no arrests have been made and officers are looking to speak with anyone who may have more information.

A spokesperson for the force said: “At about 4pm on Tuesday, October 11, we received a number of calls about a man seen shoplifting at a charity shop in the High Street area of Evesham.

“No arrests have been made.

“Anyone with information should report it to West Mercia Police.”

For more information about St Richard’s Hospice shops, including how to donate and volunteer, visit their website at www.strichards.org.uk/our-shops/.