Poppy Appeal boxes stolen (From Daily Echo)

Romsey Poppy Appeal boxes stolen

2:00pm Thursday 8th November 2012 in Romsey

MONEY destined for injured servicemen has been taken from collection boxes in Romsey.

Now police are warning venues selling poppies to secure the boxes after two thefts in the town in less than 24 hours.

The first happened at Romsey Hospital when a woman, who was herself said to be wearing a poppy, took a 10in tall red collection box, which raises money for the Royal British Legion to help servicemen and ex-servicemen, from the outpatients’ reception desk.

She is described as white, 5ft 6in, with short, brown hair and wore a brown bomber-style jacket with black trim around the neck, black leggings and ankle boots.

Then a thief struck at the Alma Road Surgery, taking a poppy collection box – this time no one was seen.

The first incident happened on Tuesday, between 1.15pm and 1.25pm and the second between 11am and 12.50pm yesterday.

It is not known how much money either box contained.

Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to call Romsey police on 101.