A CHARITY shop was smashed into by burglars who stole high value goods and cash in a “distressing” incident.

Glass to the front entrance of the Dogs Trust store in Poole High Street was smashed as thieves stole a number of vintage coins on display and more than £1,000 in cash.

The incident occurred between 5.30pm on Sunday, August 20, and 8.50am on Monday, August 21.

An attempted break-in was also reported at the nearby Age UK charity shop, which police say is believed to involve the same offender.

Investigating officers are appealing to members of the public for information.

Police Constable Islay Feltham, of Dorset Police, said: “This burglary has understandably had a distressing impact on the community and the staff at the Dogs Trust.

“We are continuing to explore a number of lines of enquiry in relation to this incident and I am now in a position to appeal to the public for anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area, or who has come across any vintage coins being offered for sale in suspicious circumstances, to please contact us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55230131959.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.