A CHARITY has called on the people of Redbridge to be vigilant after a group of thieves stole dozens of sacks of donations intended for its shop in Ilford.

Volunteers working for the PDSA, which supports sick and injured pets, were horrified to discover bags of donations containing clothes, toys and books had been swiped from a collection point in Elm Park last week.

PDSA stock collector, Cliff Reynolds, said: "I’m disgusted that people can steal from a charity like this.

"We’ve lost out on valuable donations that would have helped raised vital funds for pets in need of vets.”

He added: "Local people have reported seeing a man loading PDSA bags into the back of a blue van in the Elm Park area.

“We’ve also noticed that bags are being stolen from the Havering, Dagenham and Hornchurch areas."

A spokesman for the charity added: "The incident has been reported to the police and anyone who saw anything suspicious is being urged to get in contact."

You can contact the Ilford PDSA shop, on Cranbrook Road, on 8553 1330.