A HOSPICE based in Poole is appealing for support after mindless thieves stole items from its new base – before construction work had even finished.

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is asking for urgent donations following the recent break-in at its Longfleet Road premises.

From the new base, Lewis-Manning plans to support even more people in Poole, Purbeck and East Dorset with life-limiting illnesses.

Clare Gallie, chief executive of the charity, said: “Materials, old cabling and wires were all stolen from the Hospice’s new premises. Construction work is underway with local suppliers who are getting the new premises ready,

so we can move into Longfleet House in a few months.

“It is so heartbreaking for us, as this is such a crucial time, when we are poised to launch our new outreach services in the next few weeks.

The charity's aim is to increase people’s physical and social well-being, reduce isolation and loneliness, support people to stay in their homes longer and alleviate the pressures on family and carers.

Tom Goodinge, director of fundraising for the charity, said: “We rely on donations to support every aspect of our work – that means volunteers who donate time, clinical experts who work for us and those people that give so generously to our fundraising initiatives.

“It’s upsetting for all of us to experience a break-in and see the damage, therefore if you can give a little more at this time, we issue a heartfelt appeal and will be grateful for any donations.”

Donations to support the charity can be made online at Lewis-Manning's JustGiving page, justgiving.com/lewismanning or please help by texting DORSETCARE to 70470 to give a gift of just £5 per month.

Ms Gallie said: “ Community donations keep every aspect of our work going, they are our lifeblood.

“We would like to reach out to the local community to ask people to please help keep our new home safe and secure and, if you notice anything suspicious, contact the local authorities.”

The hospice's free care services include a day hospice, creative arts and wellbeing support, a lymphoedema clinic and better breathing clinic.