Burglars raided a Bingley charity shop – stealing ticket money for a special VIP event.

Staff at the Sue Ryder store were left devastated by the overnight raid, which was discovered yesterday morning.

“We work so hard to help other people,” said manager Anne Andre. “How can they do this to us?”

But she vowed the thieves would not stop Monday’s VIP fundraiser for Manorlands Hospice going ahead. “Manorlands really needs that money,” she said, appealing for the community to rally round and help.

“It costs £2.8m a year to run and every penny counts.”

Mrs Andre discovered the raid as she turned up for work. Stock was strewn over the floor, the front door had been tried and a heavy, solid back door had been chiselled open.

The burglars got away with £150 ticket money for Monday’s fashion event, £50 from the till, jewellery and other items. In addition, the doors will cost more than £1,000 to replace.

“We have been busy getting ready for Monday’s event,” said Mrs Andre. “And now we have this to deal with.

“They have devastated us. I have a lot on my plate just now.

“There are no words for these people. We work so hard for such a good cause.

“We appeal to people to rally round. We need to sell at least 20 more tickets for Monday night and hope there will be donations to replace the money we have lost.”

Volunteers helped in the clean-up and Mrs Andre re-opened the shop yesterday afternoon.

“Monday’s event will still go ahead,” she said. “I won’t let them stop me. Manorlands needs that money.”

Police are investigating. Anyone with information about the break-in should contact officers on 101 or 0800 555 111.