A VETERINARY charity is appealing for donations of goods to make up the theft of items collected for its Chester-le-Street shop.

Bags of goods donated by supporters of the PDSA shop, in Front Street, were stolen from outside homes in Newbottle, near Houghton-le-Spring, on Tuesday.

The shop raises funds to provide free veterinary treatment at Gateshead, Sunderland and Newcastle PDSA PetAid hospitals for the sick and injured pets of people on low incomes.

Shop manager Julie Martin said: "Our stock collector expected to collect a substantial number of PDSA sacks and was astounded to discover they had already been taken.

"It is appalling that charity donations have been treated in this way and we would ask anyone who saw the bags being collected to pass on the information to Crimestoppers.

"Supporters can help recompense for our loss by bringing quality clothing, homeware, books, toys, CDs and DVDs to the shop. All donations will be greatly appreciated, especially in the run-up to Christmas."

For details about the shop, call 0191-388 1676. The number for Crimestoppers is 0800 555 111.