Hartlepool charity cafe vandalized weeks after graffiti attack

A charity had its glass door smashed in a suspected break-in attempt weeks after it was the target of a graffiti attack.

Trevor Sherwood, of LilyAnne’s Wellbeing, which helps the homeless and those struggling with their mental health, said staff discovered the damage on Thursday at the charity’s cafe in Victoria Road, Hartlepool.

“We were devastated and shocked,” he said.

Cleveland police said they were investigating.

Sherwood said the culprits were unable to gain entry because the door behind the glass was locked twice.

He said it would take “some force” to break the reinforced glass.

“We do a lot for the community,” he said.

“But as we are a local charity we don’t have a lot of funding or donations. All they did was cause harm.”

He said those responsible were likely looking for money.

He also said that local residents had come together to raise £90 to repair the door and that a local contractor had already fixed it.

The vandalism comes a few weeks after graffiti was painted outside the café where staff distribute fruit and vegetables.

It said “fresh fruit for rotten vegetables.”

Sherwood said: “I think sometimes not everyone agrees with supporting the homeless.”

He also said it was a “disgrace” but the charity would have to consider installing a shutter.