Local Age UK targeted by thieves – break in at newly refurbished Laburnum Centre in Bognor Regis

The Laburnum Centre in Bognor Regis was targeted by thieves last night who stole items and caused extensive damage. The centre is run by local charity Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove (WSBH), which supports older people locally, providing groups and activities for fun, friendship and fitness.

The Laburnum Centre, which houses a specialist gym, a café and a variety of classes had just been refurbished last month, providing a more modern, inviting space for members. Kitchen appliances, food and drink, payment machines and a CCTV server were taken. Almost all the internal doors were damaged. The charity is working with Police as they investigate and the team have cleared up enough to open the gym and the café, but unfortunately, other classes are unable to run on Wednesday. The charity hopes to open as normal on Thursday.

Helen Rice, CEO at Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove said “Obviously we’re devastated that thieves have targeted our centre. We’re currently assessing the damage and losses but it’s a real blow when our whole team works so hard to help others. Break-ins obviously affect our members and impact on our time and money. We’re working to get the centre fully up and running as soon as possible and want to thank our community for rallying round in support.”

The Laburnum Centre is on Lyon Street, PO21 1UX. Anyone with any information about the break-in should call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove is gearing up for winter, which can be particularly difficult for some older people. To support the charity’s vital work with a donation, please visit www.ageukwsbh.org.uk or call 0800 019 1310.

If you, or someone you know would like support, or would like to find out more about Age UK WSBH’s services locally, please visit www.ageukwsbh.org.uk or call 0800 019 1310.