A VOLUNTARY group which has helped thousands of people in its near 25 year existence has twice been hit by thieves in the past three weeks.

Leigh and District Welfare Rights Voluntary Group in Chester Street, Leigh was ransacked and a printer and scanner stolen. Separate upstairs rooms were raided and a guitar, amplifier and computer taken.

Welfare Rights' Group spokesman Paddy Hill, an unpaid volunteer for 19 years, said: "I was disappointed to see what has happened -- I feel the group has been betrayed. There are seven volunteers who give their time for nothing.

"We have helped thousands of people over the years, mainly the elderly and disabled and assisted those who are in work to get due benefits.

"We desperately need a good replacement printer."