HEARTLESS thieves stole a collection box and stock worth hundreds of pounds from a Leigh charity shop.

They broke into the town's branch of the PDSA -- a veterinary charity which has been helping animals since 1917.

After smashing a second floor window at the Bradshawgate shop they selected valuable stock including a Moorcroft vase, a canteen of cutlery, an Adidas watch and the charity's collection box. They also took records of all donations made to the store.

Manager Gill Baxendale said: "All the stock had been donated by members of the public to raise money for sick and injured pets. It's disgusting that charity shops can be targeted in this way."

Anyone with information should contact the shop on 01942 681865.