by Alan Quick

MEMBERS of the public have expressed outrage in Crediton after two Poppy Box money collection boxes were stolen.

One was taken from the Station Tea Rooms in Crediton, this morning, Wednesday, November 9.

Proprietor, Linda Brown, said the theft has made her feel sick to think that someone has gone into the cafe and left with the red money collecting box.

She had stopped taking charity collecting boxes some years ago after a break-in when all her charity boxes were stolen, the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal collection tins had been an annual exception.

The other collection box was stolen from the Chef’s Choice fish and chip shop at 104 High Street, Crediton, between 7pm and 9pm on Thursday, November 3.

Proprietor Nick Pantling said the box was on the counter and it had only been there a few days.

He added: “It is terrible that someone would steal a Poppy box.

“You think you can trust people but someone must have taken it when one of us turned our backs.”

Mr Pantling, who has run the fish and chip for the past 21 years, said: “This is the first time I have had a box taken.

“I am just really angry that someone could do such a thing.”

Crediton Police would welcome any information about the theft of the Poppy collection tins.

If you can help, contact the Police using the 101 number and please quote the crime reference CR/079493/16.