Delight for pet charity as donors replace stolen cash
They were left devastated after thieves stole charity money they had collected at a carnival.
But today, following an appeal in the Express & Star, volunteers from Manic Mutts Animal Rescue spoke of their delight after revealing generous well-wishers had now donated more than three times the amount that was taken.
About £100 collected by the former dog show and display team was stolen from their car at Willenhall Carival, held at Willenhall Memorial Park, on June 14.
The volunteers had been running a car boot stall at the carnival and raised the money from selling bric-a-brac and pets goods.
And, after coming forward with an appeal following the theft, organisers revealed that they had now received more than £350 in donations and cash pledges.
Members of the public flocked to show their support while donors included Bilston Football Club.
Group secretary Barbara Lewthwaite said: "We have had lots of phone calls. We are really grateful to all the donors as their support has restored our faith in human nature.
"Some have sent cash and others have pledged some money.
"We are really pleased as we never thought we would get that amount of money back," Mrs Lewthwaite said.
In addition friends and relatives have dug deep in their pockets to replace the missing money.
The cash box was grabbed by a gang of thieves as the team were packing after the show held in the Pinson Road park.
Several people gave chase, but the three young males responsible fled on foot in the direction of Belinda Close.
See also: Thieves steal animal charity cash from Willenhall Carnival
The proceeds will go to the Shropshire-based Animal Samaritans towards the cost of heaters to keep its puppies warm. It is among a number of animal charities that is supported by Manic Mutts.
For years the group raised thousands of pounds for charities and good causes by running a popular dog show.
It was held in the grounds of St Giles Church, in Walsall Street, Willenhall, and attracted entrants young and old from across the Midlands. A judge from The Kennel Club would select the winners from a host categories including most handsome and the best novelty costume.
The final show was held at the site in 2012 due to a fall in the number of junior competitors.
The committee also performed pet dancing displays at carnivals, fetes and village shows across the region.
But the committee has continued to raise funds for charities.
West Midlands Police said efforts to find the culprits are continuing.
Witnesses with information should phone 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
