A St Albans guide dogs unit are “deeply saddened” after thieves damaged a unit and stole donated items.

The Guide Dogs for the Blind unit, in Stroud Wood Business Centre in Park Street, was broken into as offenders forced a padlock.

Six duvets, donated for dog bedding, were taken sometime between 6pm on Friday, August 12 and 8am on Monday, August 15.

The cost of the damage and stolen goods is £500, and police have said they do not have enough evidence to investigate further.

In a statement from community engagement officer, Louise Jenkins said: “We were deeply saddened to find that on two occasions, equipment for our guide dogs in training had been stolen from our Park Street office storage units.

“Our team use these premises to provide life changing services to people with sight loss in Herts, Beds and Essex.

"As a charity we rely on donations, and our fantastic volunteers, who give up their time to raise money so that we continue helping people with sight loss gain freedom and independence.”

People who can help police are advised to call the Herts Police non-emergency number 101 quoting crime reference number F3/16/1340.

If you want to make any donation to help replace the stolen goods, call 01189 838713 or email Welwyn.GardenCityMobilityTeam@guidedogs.org.uk