CHARITY bosses and an MP have condemned a thief who snatched bags filled with donations for good causes across East Lancashire.

Supporters of the North West Air Ambulance and NSPCC were targeted by Andrius Zygmantas at addresses across Brierfield and Nelson.

Burnley magistrates heard how he struck between March 1 and 14 in the two towns, when householders left homeware and clothing sacks for the charities.

Gangs have been ripping off charities for some time, with fake flyers and bogus rounds just two of the tactics employed by conmen.

Zygmantas, 31, of Stafford Road, Nelson, admitted two offences of theft and was given a six-week curfew by magistrates, between 8pm and 7am each day.

Earlier this year the air ambulance charity estimated that it lost around £1,000 per week in proceeds from donations because of the thefts.

Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson said: “I am pleased to hear that someone has been convicted of this kind of offence.

“I think it is an absolutely shocking crime and I’ve had a number of reports from across the local area of outraged residents about similar thefts.

“I have been working closely with the air ambulance and other organisations to tackle this problem over the past few months.”

An NSPCC spokesman said: “It’s disappointing to hear about this individual’s actions.

“We’re immensely grateful for the donations made by our supporters, and hope that this extremely rare case does not deter those who wish to donate to the NSPCC in this way, as their support helps us protect vulnerable children from cruelty and neglect.”