Devon Air Ambulance shocked at break in

Staff at Devon Air Ambulance Trust were left distressed and angry after the charity’s retail shop in Cowick Street, Exeter, was burgled on Monday evening.

Thieves got away with a collection box having caused significant damage to the premises including smashing the shop window.

Martin Bell, Retail Director of Devon Air Ambulance Trust said “I was extremely distressed and angry to receive a telephone call to advise me that our shop in Cowick Street, St Thomas, Exeter was broken into over-night on Monday 27 October.

“Although all that was taken was our collection box, substantial damage was caused in order to get this.  Our window was smashed and there was a lot of glass damage inside the shop.

“I am very proud of my retail team and would like to praise our Manager Michelle and Assistant Manager Harry and the fantastic team of volunteers in the shop who, despite being extremely upset at what had happened, got straight back in and started clearing and tidying once the scene was examined by the Police.”

The Charity has been left substantially out of pocket due to the break in, not just due to the stolen box but because of damage to the stock inside and the cost of repair. 

Martin Bell added “If anyone would like to help us by either providing us with stock for the shop or a small donation, then please pop in and see Michelle, Harry and our volunteers. They would love to see you.  We aren’t going to let this break in defeat us.  In fact it just makes us more determined.”

Devon Air Ambulance Trust has consistently used its 14 shops to engage with the communities where they are located. The shops sell only donated stock and are manned by volunteers in addition to a Manager and part-time Assistant Manager.  They provide local jobs and act as a hub for those who wish to volunteer for various reasons, including adding experience to their CVs, gaining work experience or taking the opportunity to make new friends.