Nursery receives community support following two burglaries

Parents have contributed over £1,000 to a nursery after the establishment was targeted by thieves on two separate occasions. Early Years Lightcliffe, situated near Halifax, endured two “soul-destroying” burglaries within a two-month span. These incidents resulted in thousands of pounds’ worth of damage, alongside the theft of cash and equipment. Laura Sheehan, a mother, launched a fundraising initiative following the crimes, motivated by her desire to support the staff who had “always supported” her. Early Years Lightcliffe operates as a committee-run, not-for-profit pre-school, conducting its play sessions within the Christ Church Centre. Sam Pearson, the nursery’s manager, discovered the initial break-in on 4 September when she found the building’s doors had been forcibly opened. “We just couldn’t believe it. We are in an old church building with old doors, they had smashed the glass panel and come through using a rock.” During this incident, £500 was taken from her office in the 150-year-old building. This money had been raised through fundraising discos and bake sales. “All the money we raise goes back into the children; resources, parties or day trips.” “It was a lot of effort to raise.” Despite efforts to enhance security, including the installation of new doors, the nursery was targeted again. West Yorkshire Police reported receiving calls about a burglary at the property on Leeds Road on 7 November. The newly installed doors were smashed, and thieves gained entry to Ms Pearson’s office. Tablets used by staff to send parents updates about their children were stolen. Ms Pearson, who has been employed at Early Years Lightcliffe for nearly 16 years and described it as “everything” to her, stated she was “devastated” by the second break-in. “Being targeted once was bad enough, but for the team to face a second break-in just two months later is soul-destroying.” Despite these “upsetting” events, the staff at Early Years Lightcliffe have expressed being “amazed” by the community’s outpouring of support. Ms Sheehan, whose children attended the nursery, remarked: “It’s not a bank with thousands of pounds, it is a facility for children.” She added, “It is really upsetting to know someone would do that”. The 33-year-old’s initial fundraising goal of £200 was quickly surpassed, eventually reaching £1,300. Ms Sheehan indicated that the amount raised demonstrated the community’s appreciation for the childcare service. “It is a special part of the community, taken for granted,” she further commented.