A mental health charity has been left counting the cost after its premises were broken into twice in one week.

Police attended the incidents at Mid Cheshire Mind’s headquarters on Dene Drive, Winsford, on Saturday, December 3, and Friday, December 9.

On both occasions the thieves targeted cash, making off with around £100 in total.

However, the damage caused to the premises has left the charity, which provides counselling services and a drop-in centre for socially isolated people, with a hefty bill.

Counselling sessions to help those struggling, which had been due to take place following the second break-in, also had to be cancelled.

Now a JustGiving page has been set up to help the charity recoup the costs of the break-ins.

Northwich Guardian: Counselling sessions had to be cancelled after the second break-in on Friday, December 9 (Mid Cheshire Mind) Counselling sessions had to be cancelled after the second break-in on Friday, December 9 (Mid Cheshire Mind) (Image: Mid Cheshire Mind)

Carol Halpin, general manager at Mid Cheshire Mind, said: “There were two break-ins, and a considerable amount of damage.

“The first time they took the petty cash box, which was less than £100.

“The only reason it was that much was because a lady had made a donation that day, and it was just after the bank had closed.

“The second time they got away with £4.

“But the damage ran to more than £200, just to get the doors fixed. We’ve also had to do a lot of clearing up as they’ve tipped things out of cupboards inside.

“We had to cancel all the counselling sessions following the last break-in, because of the shear amount of glass in the building.”

“We generate all our own income, which comes from grants and general fundraising, or people making donations.

“We have set up a JustGiving page to help get that additional money back, as it comes out of our funds.”

Cheshire Police confirmed they received reports of the two break-ins.

A spokesman said: “On Saturday, December 3, police were called to reports of an incident at a business premises on Dene Drive, Winsford.

“The caller reported that an unknown person had smashed a window on a door at the address.

“Then, at 8.59am on Friday, December 9, police were called to reports of a second incident at the same premises.

“On this occasion two windows were smashed open. An unknown person then entered the building and stole less than £5 in loose change.

"Anyone with any information in relation to the incidents is asked to contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting IML 1431110."