OUTRAGED fund-raisers have spoken of their dismay and disgust after thieves smashed into a charity box and stole cash destined for a life-saving appeal.

The box was secure and chained to the wall at the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton when the thieves forced their way into it last Saturday at about 7.30pm – during visiting hours.

They fled from the scene with about £100 – money that was intended to save lives by helping provide the hospital with a £2 million MRI scanner.

Head of fundraising Paul Watkins said: “It’s so disappointing and such a shame to think that someone could be that desperate to steal from a charity, particularly one working with - and for - the local community to bring this essential piece of medical kit to the hospital.

“Since we launched the appeal in partnership with the Friends of the Friarage Hospital, we have been overwhelmed by the local support of the public and staff –and this just makes me sick to my stomach.”

He added: “The collection box, which was outside the Friends shop, was secure and chained to the wall. We think up to £100 may have been taken and we have tightened up security since the theft.”

To date, more than £1 million has been pledged towards the scanner appeal.

Mr Watkins said: “We’ve posted the details on Facebook just to see if anyone had information and also to ask people to keep sharing it, Maybe it will shame them into doing the right thing and giving the money back - although I doubt it.”

Anyone interesting in supporting the appeal can donate online at justgiving.com/FriarageMRIscannerappeal or contact the Friends of the Friarage Hospital on 01609 762013 or South Tees Hospital Charity appeal office on 01609 764936.