AN appeal has been launched by Wiltshire Police following the theft of a PA system from a barn in Pewsey, meant for a Christmas float for Julia's House.

Overnight between 6.30pm on 21 July and 9am on 22 July, a sound system and speakers were stolen from a barn in Dursden Lane.

The items had been collected by the Pewsey Vale support group for Julia's House on the Thursday and locked in the barn for safekeeping. 

Phillip Stevens, 67, owner of the barn, said: "I was heartbroken, we were given that to raise money for Julia’s House, and it is just disgusting. The police don’t normally attend for domestic burglaries but they visited the barn and did a door to door, it is being taken very seriously. This incident is beyond unacceptable and the people who have suffered are the hospice team.”

The team at Julia's House have also come out and said that the theft has a sad effect on the potential Christmas float.

Ian Wadley, Wiltshire Fundraising Manager for Julia's House, said: “We were all shocked and saddened to hear of this theft. Our fantastic Pewsey Vale Friends’ Group volunteers work so hard to raise funds and profile for Julia’s House. Everyone was excited by their plan to use the sleigh to bring lots of fun, laughter and festive cheer to local people, while also raising money for the new Julia’s House children’s hospice and respite care service here in Wiltshire."

PC Karen Haddrell said: “The victim has been left devastated following this burglary. The items stolen were being stored ready to raise money as part of the Christmas sleigh visits over the festive season. These visits would have no doubt brought a lot of joy to local people, while raising money for a worthwhile cause.

“Unfortunately, the victim cannot afford to replace the sound system, and as a result, hundreds of pounds will now not be raised for charity. Julia’s House is a charity which offers regular respite sessions for children with life-limiting illnesses and it is a hugely important cause.

“This was a heartless act and I hope the person responsible is reading this and realises the upset they have caused.

“As well as the sound system and speakers, a lawn mower and grass collector were also stolen.

“I’d like to appeal to anyone with information on this incident to contact police immediately via 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”