MEMBERS of a project which helps disabled and socially disadvantaged people have been left unable to do their work after having nearly £3,500 worth of equipment stolen.

The Shaw Trust provides training and work opportunities for people who are disadvantaged due to a disability, ill health or other social circumstances.

The project, run from Richmond House in Gainsborough, has 18 members who have all been left upset following the theft of a trailer, petrol lawn mower and gardening tools from its compound in Billinghay, near Sleaford at around 5pm on Sunday February 24.

Now the charity is stuck and is unable to carry on its working in the local community without the items.

Members currently tend to the grounds and gardens of disadvantaged Acis residents, the United Reformed Church, All Saint’s Parish Church, Gainsborough Methodist Church, Gainsborough House Community Centre and the Lea Methodist Church.

Kevin Cooper, Shaw Trust development officer said: “All the people involved with the charity have been left really upset and angry following the theft.

“I suppose those who took out items didn’t have any idea that we are a charity and the work we do in the local community.

“At the moment we are stuck now and can’t do our usually work because we don’t have the necessary equipment and this is a real concern with the spring creeping up on us.”

The equipment, lawn mower and trailer, which totals £3,300 is brought to Gainsborough twice a week by project staff for members to use.

The Shaw Trust mental health project was launched in Gainsborough last May and helps the “recovering” members, from the town, Lincoln and the surrounding areas gain new skills.

Now Mr Cooper is appealing for townsfolk to lend or donate any petrol lawn movers or tools so they can continue with their work.

He said: “The theft has left us unable to work with our clients on what they like doing best and the valuable work they do has had to temporarily cease.

“So we are appealing for people in Gainsborough and the surrounding area to lend us their tools, or a petrol lawn mower to we can continue our work in the local community.

A spokesperson for Acis Group said: “Acis Group have worked with Shaw Trust in the past and have been looking to work with them again to provide a gardening service to our customers in the Gainsborough area.

“We recognise the good work the charity does in the local community and are sorry to hear of recent incident.”

Rachael Hill, West Division communications officer from Lincolnshire Police added: “This will have been really upsetting for all the members of the Shaw Trust.

“We would appeal for anyone who has any information in relation to the incident or who knows the whereabouts of the items to contact us on (01427) 810910 quoting incident number 343 of February 24.”

If you can help out The Shaw Trust in any way contact Kevin Cooper on 07779 337245.