STAFF and volunteers at an animal sanctuary are counting the cost after thieves smashed their way in and stole power tools, personal items and donations of cash worth more than £1,000.

The office at Dean Farm near Chepstow was ransacked in the night-time raid on Tuesday, March 5, causing damage totalling some £500 and an appeal has now been launched to increase security, which will cost another £4,000.

Sanctuary co-founder Mary Frankland told supporters the day after the break in: “We’re really sad to share this news, but last night thieves broke into our sanctuary, stole all our power tools and vandalised our office. Another local farm was also targeted.

“Luckily, the residents and staff are all OK, but we urge everyone in the Chepstow area to be vigilant, especially those in rural areas.

“If you see anyone selling power tools locally, please let us know. Everything that was taken was personal property or had been donated to Dean Farm.

“It’s really upsetting to think anyone would break in and cause criminal damage anywhere, but even more so when they have targeted a charity.

“We’re ensuring our security will be stronger than ever and are working with the police to try and catch those responsible.

“Despite this, our day-to-day work must continue and we’ve been as busy as ever, receiving lots of calls from people wanting us to take their animals.

“Our hard work will continue, ensuring our residents continue to live their lives happy and free from harm.”

She later posted on the farm trust’s Facebook page: “Sanctuary life has many challenges, which we overcome, but this one has really knocked us.

“It’s such a shock that anyone would do this. We have to invest in higher security, but will that stop them?

“What if we have residents in the barns and they get hurt, this is so worrying.

“All our supporters have been so kind over the years, which at times like this help us to keep going.

“Many of you have offered financial support which will help with security and hopefully protect us from future attacks.

“If anyone would like to help please donate. Thank you so much.”

Chepstow Police tweeted last week: “There have been a number of shed and farm outbuilding break-ins in rural Chepstow.

“Please be vigilant and make your property is as secure as possible. Please contact 101 or 999 if you see any suspicious activity at the time.”

“The support we’ve received from local businesses, Gwent Police, our supporters and staff has been incredible.” Mary added. “We really appreciate it and are so grateful for such a wonderful local community.”

Opened in 2016, Dean Farm provides a home at its 62-acre site for more than 130 rescued animals that were ill-treated, unwanted or neglected, including donkeys, pigs, hens, sheep and ponies.

It also promotes compassionate living by providing information on animals used in factory farming, sports and entertainment.

Dean Farm relies entirely on donations, help from the local community and volunteers, and receives no government funding.

To support its appeal to strengthen its security, go to JustGiving and search for ‘Dean Farm Trust break-in fundraiser’. More details can also be found at deanfarmtrust.org.uk and on Facebook.