A BURY businesswoman has vowed to continue trading despite a third ram raid on her popular children's clothes shop.

The latest raid, which netted thieves £10,000 worth of garments, came days after raiders had failed to smash their way into Smarty's in Tithebarn Street, Bury.

Now, owner Mrs Karen Hodgkiss says she will carry out another review of security in a bid to prevent further damaging raids.

Raiders reversed a stolen Ford Granada car through the rear fire door of the premises, damaging the door and demolishing part of the wall.

Once inside, they grabbed two thirds of the stock of childrenswear before escaping in a white estate car - leaving the Granada embedded in the wall.

Mrs Hodgkiss said that days earlier, raiders had ripped the shutters from the back and smashed the door down.

However, they left empty handed after failing to penetrate a wrought iron gate.

But the businesswoman didn't have the time to reattach the shutters before thieves struck again days later.

"I've had about £10,000 worth of clothes stolen, which represents about two thirds of the stock.

"I can't believe what has happened. It's the third time I've been raided since I opened here two years ago in November. I'd just got the door repaired the previous day.

"It's just hearbreaking. I've got a good business here. I've been really busy and we've been doing well. Things just can't get any worse now."

Despite what has happened, however, she will continue to trade.

She added: "Where is this all going to end? I feel very vulnerable here but I've virtually done everything I can security wise. But now, I'll have to look to see if I can improve it."

Now, Bury police are anxious to talk to anyone who witnessed the raid.

Those who have not previously spoken to officers should contact Detective Constable Sandy Greenhalgh on at Bury CID on 856 8150

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