STAFF at a Lye charity for disabled children were left reeling with shock on discovering their centre had been broken into over Christmas.

KIDS Orchard Centre, which is based on Lye By-Pass, supports disabled children and young people and their families by providing a wide range of invaluable services.

But during the festive period, thieves broke into the centre, stole a small amount of money and also caused a great deal of damage and mess by smashing windows and turning the office upside down.

Staff went into the centre over the Christmas holiday to start clearing up the site in their bid to ensure they could open back on time this week, however there is still damage to the windows which the charity needs to repair.

Claire Reid, KIDS regional manager, said: “It is heart breaking. Staff work really hard to raise money to improve the centre and increase the services we offer and now we are going to have to spend that money on replacing broken windows and the stolen cash.”

For more than 45 years, KIDS has worked across the country to support young people and their families, by helping them cope with their disabilities and making sure they are given every opportunity to fulfil their potential.

For many people the centre is a life line, offering play and leisure activities to allow disabled children to gain independence and new skills, as well as offering information and support for parents.

KIDS are now appealing for donations to help cover the clear up costs. Donations can be made by emailing hannah.pennock@kids.org.uk, or by clicking donate on the KIDS website at www.kids.org.uk