STAFF and service users of a Stourport training provider that supports people with learning difficulties have been left devastated following a burglary.

More than £5,000 worth of gardening tools and equipment were taken during the raid on Muddy Boots Ground Care CIC’s base at Leapgate Farm.

Thieves made off with two Honda petrol mowers (model HRH 536 HX), three Sthil strimmers (FS360, FS240C and FS90) and a Sthil hand held leaf blower (BG86C).

The break-in happened between 6pm on Tuesday, August 14 and 6am the following morning.

Director Lesley Tite, who set up Muddy Boots two years ago after Kidderminster-based Beacon Employment – where she had worked for 12 years – ceased trading, said the theft had shocked the team.

But she added she was touched by the support and offers of help she has had from the community, who rallied around them in the wake of the incident.

She said: “Muddy Boots support 16 people with learning disabilities and mental health during the week as well as those who attend during the holidays.

“The Ground Care team look after a number of church yards across the Worcestershire and West Midlands areas and rely on the equipment that has been stolen.

“The team are struggling to understand why someone would steal from them and are very upset about the theft. The estimated loss of the equipment is just over £5,000.”

She added: “We have been overwhelmed with the support from the local community and would like to thank them for their support and especially those that have been in contact directly and offered to loan equipment in the interim period so that the team can continue with their work obligations."

Anyone with any information is urged to call West Mercia Police on 101 quoting crime reference number 22/72351/18 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.