A restaurant in Eccles has thanked the public for their “phenomenal” reaction after a charity collection tin was stolen from their restaurant during the November lockdown.

While the restaurant was closed during the lockdown, the St Ann’s charity box was stolen. Since then, Blacksticks have received donations from both loyal customers and strangers.

The tapas bar and grill, located in Monton, Eccles, has also donated £1.50 from every dessert ordered from its takeaway menu during the lockdown to the charity.

 

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Steve Kelsall, from Blacksticks, said: “We donated profits from desserts and have so far raised around £185. These are hard times for people who haven’t got a lot of money and it shows the affection for St Ann’s.”

The public’s attention was drawn to the incident that happened at Blacksticks when a CCTV image was released of the thief and reached more than 175,000 social media users. As well as the tin being stolen there was also several hundred pounds worth of damage caused to the property.

“The reaction was phenomenal and we had passers-by and customers making donations. We want to thank everyone for their goodwill – it shows there’s still a great sense of community spirit.”

Although donations were lost, due to the theft, the generosity of the public has been a great help to St Ann’s.

Rachel McMillan, Chief Executive for St Anns, stated: “The generosity of the public and the team at Blacksticks following this crime has been so heart-warming, especially at the moment when times are so difficult for everyone.”

Due to the pandemic, St Ann’s have had to cancel a lot of their fundraising events which were due to take place this year. The support from local communities has helped to keep their charities’ doors open and to continue providing care for local patients.

She continued: “We really appreciate all the support everyone is giving the hospice and the money raised really will make a difference. Our fundraising activities have been seriously affected by the pandemic, and we’re hugely grateful to everyone who is thinking of us at this time.”

To make a donation to St Ann’s Hospice or find out more about its services, visit their website here.

 

 

 

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