Trio feel like nickin' tonight
Grinning broadly, these three men look friendly enough customers as they wait to be served in a Wigan takeaway - but moments later they committed a crime that police and staff have described as disgusting and pathetic.
One of the trio walks out of Ashton's Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant with two cuddly toys that were being raffled in aid of starving millions in the developing world.
Police have issued CCTV images of the three men wanted in connection with the theft of the teddy bear and fluffy dog.
It was about 9.45pm on Wednesday, October 15, when they approached the counter of the Gerard Street KFC and chatted to staff.
One of them then picked up the toys, which were wrapped in clear bags and had been sitting on the counter, and left.
Customers at the restaurant had raised more than 600 for the charity World Hunger – a nationwide KFC appeal in which the company teamed up with the UN's World Food Programme to help countries worst hit by the international food crisis – before the toys were stolen.
Bosses say that while the Ashton outlet raised an excellent amount, it would probably have raised even more had it not been for the theft. Thankfully the money at least was safe.
PC Graeme Pendlebury, community beat manager for Ashton-in-Makerfield, said: "I think it's disgusting that three grown men can steal a charity teddy bear.
"I hope this appeal makes one of them realise how pathetic they have been and they come forward."
Police have described the toys in case they end up being given as presents or prizes elsewhere.
Taken were a medium-sized brown bear with ribbons on it and a fluffy white dog which was gift-wrapped with ribbons and roses.
A spokesman for the franchisee that operates KFC Ashton-in-Makerfield said: "We were dismayed to hear of this incident.
"Our staff worked extremely hard to raise over 600 for World Hunger Relief Week, and they are understandably disappointed that somebody would steal charity prizes.
"We are currently assisting police with their investigation.
"Fortunately, the raffle was still able to go ahead as the prizes were replaced and we'd like to thank our staff and customers for their generous support."
Anyone with information should call Bamfurlong police station on (0161) 856 7436 or Crimestoppers anonymously on (0800) 555 11.
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Thursday 02 September 2010
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