FUNERAL directors have been left devastated after shameless raiders broke into their premises and stole donations left in memory of loved ones.

Burglars forced their way into RG Bennetts, in Blackhall Colliery, east Durham, between Monday night and yesterday morning.

Stephanie Bennett posted on Facebook: “Last night between 5pm and 5am someone broke into our front office of our funeral home R.G Bennett’s 38 Middle Street, Blackhall Colliery.

“They stole donations in memory of families loved ones and my dad’s briefcase with nothing except blank cremation forms.

“We are absolutely devastated that anyone could do such a low-life thing.

“This is our place of respect and has been for 25 years.”

She added: “We need to find out who done this to us we are utterly heartbroken.

“We are so sorry to all families in our village and surrounding that this is happened.”

PCSO Ian Goodwin said: “A burglary has taken place at Bennetts funeral directors in Blackhall Colliery sometime overnight on Monday.

“The intruders forced open the front door of the property and made an untidy search before stealing two envelopes containing cash.

“They also took a black Solo briefcase. This a heartless theft. Some people have no shame.”

Inquiries are ongoing.

Anyone with information should contact Durham Police on 101 and quote crime number CR100106876/