A CHARITY has slammed thieves who stole hanging baskets destined for a regeneration project.

Charity workers at the Freshfields garden centre in Cemetery Lane, Burnley, found nine hanging baskets - worth £180 - had been stolen overnight Wednesday.

Management at the centre, which was set up 11 years ago to help people who have difficulty finding employment, have no idea how the thieves got in.

But they have promised to replace the stolen baskets so that the Thursby Gardens Community Action Group does not miss out.

Joan Ainsworth, assistant manager at Freshfields said: "We are still trying hard to get the order out but we are very upset. It is possible someone is trying to sell them at a car boot sale or market. Everyone here is really disappointed because they work so hard to try to make a difference to Burnley."

Staff at the centre are trying to make up the order, but if the hanging baskets are not returned Freshfields will be left out of pocket.

Gardening supervisor Trisha Franks added: "We are very upset and working extremely hard to make sure the community does not lose out."

Chairman of Thursby Gardens Community Action Group, Anne Walmsley, said: "Nothing surprise me these days, that's why we have an action group; to tackle anti-social behaviour.

"It is very disappointing. You try your best to make things better and things have a way of going wrong."

The Thursby Gardens Community Action Group was hoping to install the baskets in Thursby Road Gardens later this month.

Inspector Martin Hall from Burnley Police said: "I would urge anyone with any information about the theft, or anyone who saw any suspicious activity in that area, to contact local police or Crimestoppers free and in confidence on 0800 555 111."