A VOLUNTEER with a charity that was targeted by thieves who stole vital computer equipment has organised an event to replace the stolen items.

Michelle Edwards hopes to replace the games and four laptops stolen from Advocacy in Darlington, which works with people with learning disabilities, in a raid on the charity’s headquarters last week.

Ms Edwards, who volunteers with the charity to help provide socialising opportunities for users, has arranged a charity coffee morning on Saturday, June 1, at The Emerson Arms, in Hurworth.

The event will include refreshments, a raffle and a cake stall, with all proceeds donated to the charity to help replace the stolen equipment.

Ms Edwards is looking for Darlington businesses to donate items for the raffle prizes.

The equipment taken from the building on the Cleveland Trading Estate were all second-hand items that had been donated less than a week before the raid.

Ms Edwards said: “This was by no means new equipment, but old and surplus things that had been kindly donated and cobbled together to be used by these vulnerable adults who use Advocacy for social opportunities as well as an activity group.

“These people do not fully understand what has in fact happened and it is our intention to try to raise some funding to replace their stolen equipment.”

To make a donation or offer a raffle prize call Ms Edwards on 01325-721049 or 07857261668.