POLICE are investigating a break-in at a garden centre in Bournemouth on Friday morning.

Cherry Tree Nursery say that “considerable damage” has been caused to their storeroom, which was broken into in the early hours of Friday November 27.

Although no items were taken from the nursery, Dorset Police have said that no arrests have been made at this point in time, with enquiries still ongoing.

Community Coordinator at Cherry Tree Nursery Ray Alderton said: “We are shocked that we have been violated in this way. especially as it comes at a time before Christmas amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Although it appears that nothing was taken, we have to cover the excess on our insurance and sadly, to repair the damage will cost our charity money that would normally be used looking after our vulnerable adults.

“Dealing with this incident has caused additional stress on our staff who have been magnificent this year looking after our vulnerable Volunteers and keeping our charity going during these tough times.”

Police are working with the nursery, who have CCTV images of the incident, to find the culprits

Having informed supporters and customers of Cherry Tree Nursery about the break-in on their Facebook page, the charity have received donations from the community to go towards a new door as well as the nursery’s associated charity.

Ray added: “Following the offers from people in our community of practical help or wishing to donate, we updated our Facebook post to provide our bank details.

“We are heartened by the messages we have received since the incident and really appreciate the support that we have received, particularly as we know many people are also having a tough time.

“It has raised our spirits to know the community cares so much.”

Anyone with information about the incident can contact Dorset Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 55200178542.