HEARTLESS thieves have stolen a Remembrance Day collection box from a farm shop. The raiders broke into Huffer s farm shop, in Ashwell Road, Steeple Morden, on Sunday night, and made off with a number of items including the collection box. Proprietor Maur

HEARTLESS thieves have stolen a Remembrance Day collection box from a farm shop.

The raiders broke into Huffer's farm shop, in Ashwell Road, Steeple Morden, on Sunday night, and made off with a number of items including the collection box.

Proprietor Maureen Huffer said: "I just can't believe that anyone would want to steal from a charity like that.

"There was probably only £30 or £40 in it, so it's not the money, more the principal of the thing. I'm shocked."

The intruders set off an alarm when they broke into the premises between 9.50pm and 10.20pm on Sunday.

This alerted Maureen's husband, Brian, who managed to scare them off.

"When my husband arrived to see what was going on they made a run for it," said Maureen.

"We were quite lucky in that they didn't have time to get too much, just some petty cash and a few bits and pieces from the shop.

"The front doors are completely smashed in though.

"The funny thing is they left another charity box and just grabbed the Poppy one. It's very sad."

A spokesman for Cambridgeshire Police, who are investigating the incident, said: "It appears the alarm system being activated confused the offenders, and caused them to make off with several items.

"However, they have caused extensive damage to the shop."

The police are appealing for witnesses, and anyone with information should contact Sawston police station on 0845 4564564, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.