SHOPLIFTERS are targeting charity stores in a busy street in Swindon town centre.

There are five charity shops in Havelock Street and four say they have been the victim of thieves, who often strike several times a week.

Now, the Barnardo's children's charity shop has placed a sign on its door asking for those people with ill intentions to walk away rather than steal.

But few are heeding the advice, with several items going missing each day.

Chris Judd, area retail manager of Barnardo's, said: "Like every retailer on the High Street, charity shops fall victim to thieves. The Barnardo's shops have high quality goods, including designer labels, and we have had shoplifters come into the store.

"Barnardo's relies on the income from its charity shops, as well as public donations, to run projects such as our family group conferenceing scheme which is helping families in Swindon through a crisis. Stealing from one of our shops is like stealing from some of the most disadvantaged in society."

Carol Fordham, manager of the Shaw Trust store , which raises money for the disabled, said she was also experiencing problems.

Out of the 24 Shaw Trust shops across the South West and Wales, the Swindon branch was one of the worst for shoplifting she said. "It is very worrying. We work hard to help the disabled and these people come along and do this. It is usually clothes because they are the easiest take," she said.

"But you would think that these items are so cheap, usually £1.99, that people would take the time and pay for them. When they steal it means that we have to work harder. It is fortunate that we are still receiving donations from local people."

Virginia Ward, manager of the British Heart Foundation shop, said: "Shoplifting from charity shops seems to be an on-going problem, particularly in this street. Some people come in and steal shoes. They take their shoes off try on the donated ones and then go, leaving their old shoes behind."

Maggie Aldridge, manager of the Oxfam store in Regent Street, said: "I would be very surprised if a day went by when nothing was taken from our shop. People think we are a soft target and will steal anything.

"It is not just youngsters. It is unbelievable what some people will do."

Swindon police spokeswoman Alvina Kumar said: "The deplorable actions of anyone who deprive the less fortunate members of our society by stealing from charity shops is beyond the understanding of ordinary people."

"We would encourage anyone who either witnesses a theft or has information as to the identity of the perpetrators to contact us."