A HOUSEBUILDER has pledged support for a cancer charity after thieves stole a collection tin.

Money had been donated to Prevent Breast Cancer at Knutsford and District Community Hospital.

Bellway Homes heard about the theft on social media and has replaced the £100 in cash that was stolen.

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Knutsford resident and local Prevent Breast Cancer ambassador Caroline Hickson looks after the collection tin.

Caroline, a clerical assistant at Knutsford and District Community Hospital, said: “When I came into work and found that the collection box was gone, I was devastated.

“So many of us know people who have experienced breast cancer, making this an important charity to support, and one where we feel what we are doing is making a difference.

“We usually collect approximately £30 per month.

“Bellway replaced the collections that we had received over the last couple of months and kindly rounded it up to £100.

“We are so grateful to Bellway for generously giving us the money to cover the loss.”

Bellway sales director Grace Yarlett added: “When we heard about the theft we knew we had to help.

“From speaking to Caroline, we know how important this charity is locally and we are glad to have been able to do something to help.

“We have made Prevent Breast Cancer our chosen charity for the next few months and are planning to do more events on site to generate more cash to donate in the autumn.”

Bellway is building a selection of two, three and four bedroom homes at its Park Gate Village development, close to the town centre.