A CHARITY chief has condemned thieves who snatched a donation box containing cash for a life-saving emergency service.

The callous criminals swiped a collection box for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance from Martinstown Post Office by wrenching it from its security chain on the counter.

It was believed to have contained £40 for the charity, which is dubbed ‘the fourth emergency service’.

Director Nicola Howkins said: “It’s very sad when people feel they have to steal a charity collection box, especially from the air ambulance, when the money raised from these boxes is an essential way of keeping the helicopters flying and saving lives.

“£3,500 has to be raised a day to keep the helicopters in the air and every little bit is very important.”

Martinstown postmaster Alan Pascal said a single member of staff was serving in the shop on Thursday (August 13) afternoon at around 5.20pm when four people believed to be in their twenties walked inside and went off in different directions.

Hours later, the charity box was discovered missing.

Mr Pascal said: “It hadn’t been emptied for about three months and probably had about £40 inside.

“We had quite a bit of loose change in there.

“I can’t even begin to say what I think of these people.”

Dorchester Police are appealing for information about the crime.

Inspector Les Fry said: “It’s a despicable crime, taking money away from a charity that’s very important and needed in the community.

“The air ambulance receives no public money and relies on donations.

“It might be that whoever has stolen the money or their family will be in need of this service one day.

“I hope their conscience gets the better of them.”

Dorset Police are urging shop managers to make sure that charity boxes are adequately secured.

Police Community Support Officer Sarah Pilcher said: “All shops need to be mindful that there are people out there who will sink to such levels – charity boxes should be securely fastened.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police on 01305 222222.