Demelza appeals for support after equipment stolen ahead of fundraising events this weekend
12th April 2025
Demelza is appealing for support after equipment was stolen ahead of two fundraising events this weekend.
The charity is hosting an Easter trail and craft fair at its site in Rook Lane in Sittingbourne on both Saturday and Sunday.
When the fundraising team arrived on site to finish setting up this morning (Saturday), they discovered around £1,000 worth of audio equipment had been stolen overnight.
The sound system and related electrical equipment were taken from a large marquee which had been set up in the grounds of Demelza’s new Hill Farm site, opposite the existing buildings on Rook Lane.
The marquee had been secured, but on arrival they discovered the thieves had gained access and taken the items from inside.
The equipment was funded by a regular Demelza supporter, who said he’s devastated by the theft.
The events are still going ahead this weekend. Today’s Easter trail and craft fair is sold out, but there are still some tickets left for tomorrow’s event, which can be purchased via the events page on the Demelza website.
Demelza’s Deputy Director of Fundraising, Laura Smyth, said: “We’re absolutely appalled by this theft.
“To steal from anyone is awful but to steal from a charity which is clearly preparing to host a fun family event is just unthinkable.
“It’s a blow to all of our wonderful supporters who are so generous in the different ways they help Demelza, to our staff and volunteers who have worked so hard to stage these events, to the families that are coming along to enjoy them and to the children and families that Demelza supports.
“We would appeal to anyone with information on the theft to get in touch with Kent Police on 101, quoting reference number SP-36301-25-4646-04.
“If you’d like to support Demelza, our spring appeal is still running until the end of the month and thanks to a generous match funding pledge, all donations will be matched pound for pound.
“Every donation we receive makes a big impact on the lives of children with serious or life-limiting conditions and their families who use our services.”