30-05-2025
'It broke me' - Devon charity workers devastated after thousands stolen during break-in
Watch Marina Jenkins' report on the burglary
A charity manager has been left 'distraught' after her community centre was burgled and vandalised in Paignton.
Police are investigating the thefts which took place at the CentrePeace Community Café overnight on 26 and 27 May.
Officers are searching for two men who they believe are responsible for stealing £2,000 and causing more than £10,000 worth of damage.
CentrePeace offers a range of services, from free workshops, activities and counselling to a charity shop and a café selling affordable meals.
Manager Dee Mulhall described the moment she found the devastation: "I walked upstairs and saw what they had done. The place was trashed. It broke me. I was just distraught.
"I was mortified that they took money, because we're a charity. Everything we make goes back into supporting the local community.
"The worst thing about it is now our regulars have nowhere to go. One man who comes in every single day, just looked at me and said 'where am I supposed to go now?' It's heartbreaking."
CentrePeace opened its doors in 2013 and initially supported the homeless community in Paignton. But over the years, it has evolved into a large community hub.
15-year-old Fiona Akter started volunteering at CentrePeace as part of her Duke of Edinburgh Award. But because she enjoyed it so much, has continued working for the charity.
Fiona said: "It's just so sad. Why would someone do this? It's a charity, a place which helps people every day.
"If we don't have good places like this for people to go to, people won't survive. These places are needed."
Dee is slowly piecing the community centre back together and has launched a crowdfunder to help pay for the repairs.
She hopes CentrePeace will be able to reopen soon, and thanks people for their kindness and offers of donations.
A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: "Officers are investigating the burglaries and appealing to anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious to contact them.
"They would particularly like to hear from anyone who may have captured the incidents or suspects on CCTV or doorbell camera.
