'WE won't let them get us down," is the message to thieves who broke into a community centre and stole a 'significant' amount of cash.

Police are investigating a burglary at The Frank Reynolds Community Centre on Dorchester Road, Broadwey.

Damage was caused to a door to gain entry and a quantity of cash was stolen, according to Dorset Police.

The community centre's bookings secretary, David Moth, said he was 'shocked' to make the discovery on the morning of Monday, February 17.

"It is worrying," he said. "Nothing like this has happened before. It is not a good feeling."

The community centre - which also incorporates Springfield Social Club - is home to many groups, including table-tennis teams, bridge club and sewing, lip-reading, art and music classes, and Mr Moth said the break-in came as a shock to those who use it.

"People have been concerned about their groups," he said. "It came as a shock to quite a few of the clubs. We are a community centre and so any loss is a significant loss to us.

"But we will open again as normal and we won't let them get us down. The police have been extremely helpful and have shown great thought and care."

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information about the burglary to come forward.

It took place some time between 11pm on Sunday, February 16, and 8.30am on Monday, February 17, in the bar area of the community centre.

Police Constable Maddie Barber, of Weymouth police, said: “This burglary has impacted on a valuable facility for the community and we have been carrying out a number of enquiries so far to try and locate the offender.

“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area at the relevant time to please get in touch.

“I would also urge local residents to check their home CCTV systems for any footage that may assist my investigation.”

Anyone with information can contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting crime number 55200024896.