IT'S BEEN dubbed the lowest on the scale of petty crime.

But thieves who target charity shops seem to have upped their attacks on one Romsey store - and alongside donations of clothing and books, bosses are now being forced to appeal for security cameras.

Cancer Research UK in Church Street has been hit twice by burglars in the last six months.

Just a few weeks ago, the premises was ransacked by late-night thieves who got away with £10 from a collection tin.

The incidents have shocked store bosses, who say every penny that goes missing means less money for vital research into finding a cure for cancer.

Now they are urging businesses who are upgrading security systems, or who have CCTV cameras to spare, to get in touch.

Manager Susan Hooper said: "It's desperately sad that a charity shop should have to worry about this kind of crime. My team donate their spare time to make a difference to cancer research - then they are faced with this attitude. It's very disheartening.

"It would be great if we could prevent this from happening in the future with the use of a security camera system someone could donate.

"It's crucial to so many that our charity can keep safe, secure and fundraising."

Only last week the Daily Echo reported how the Marie Curie Cancer Care shop in Lymington had been a regular target of thieves.

Manager Angela Hobby has been forced to lock up donated goods because thieves keep stealing designer outfits.

A police spokesman said Romsey charity shops were not being targeted more than other town centre stores.

If you can help the Romsey store, drop into the shop or call Susan on 01794 830 232.