A disability charity has condemned “mindless” thieves who broke into a workshop and caused an estimated £1,500 damage.
 
The Papworth Trust-run OWL Bikes in Cambridge offers work and training opportunities for local disabled people who help refurbish donated bikes that are then sold to the public.

But the premises in Hawthorn Way was forced to close for trading for two-and-a-half days after it was targeted between 4am and 5am on Saturday morning.

Dan Eaton, service manager at OWL Bikes, said the front door of the building was damaged and a window smashed before entry was gained and a 24-speed, metallic burgundy bike stolen.

Dan said: “As well as a significant financial lost, this incident has also had a detrimental impact on our service users who really benefit from the work and training opportunities offered by OWL Bikes.

“The fact that this incident took place, and forced the closure of OWL Bikes for a short period of time, has been both upsetting and distressing for all.”

OWL Bikes sell donated bikes and accessories to the local community as well as carrying out repairs.

Dan said: “We moved to the site in Hawthorn Way in January and our local community has embraced what we are trying to achieve and what we are trying to offer.

“We won’t let this mindless incident detract from that.”

To find out more, please visit https://www.papworthtrust.org.uk/owl-bikes/.