Thieves have smashed their way into Colne Market - stealing two charity boxes for the Poppy Appeal and Help for Heroes in the centenary year of the First World War.
The incident, which happened in the Market Street building overnight between Friday and Saturday, has been branded “devastating” and “disgusting” on Facebook.
Traders have also been taking to social media to express their disappointment, as well as to thank loyal customers for their support.
Police confirmed that they received a report of two charity boxes, containing around £200 each, being stolen from the market at around 5-30am on Saturday. Two Dell laptops and a Samsung Galaxy mobile were also said to be taken.
It is believed offenders found their way into the building by smashing a rear window.