BURGLARS attacked a theatre and a business premises in Callington on Saturday night, stealing nearly £5,000's worth of property and causing hundreds of pounds worth of damage.

There are now fears that the Prim Raf theatre may not be able to stage its pantomime in February after the venue was stripped of vital sound and lighting equipment.

The burglary — believed to be the first in the theatre's 60-year history — has been described as 'sickening' by members of the charity.

A movies and games shop nearby was also targetted with newly delivered items ordered in for Christmas stolen, including Nintendo Wii consols and games valued at more than £2,500.

Another burglary in the town centre was carried out last Thursday (December 10) when £1,000 worth of golfing equipment was stolen from a private garage. Police believe all three crimes are related. Further attempts were made to break into the theatre and games shop on Monday night but without success.

Chairman of Prim Raf Steve Hill said: 'Over the years we have built up the equipment here and maintained the building to give a service to the community.

'People pay money to come and see these productions so we endeavour to do the best we can to a good standard. We are a charity not a commercial enterprise so why we should be targetted I don't know — it is a great shame.'

Burglars searched frantically through every room, turning out cupboards and drawers to find items of value. They took more than £2,000 worth of property and also made off with the safe —fortunately it was empty.

Entrance was gained through the fire escape and work is being done to repair doors and other property which has been damaged. Extra security measures are being looked into.

Mr Hill said it was a particularly sad thing to happen during the Prim Raf's 60th birthday year which had brought together members from the past and present. The theatre had a thriving junior section and the senior members staged several shows a year with the pantomime a particular highlight.

'Some of the equipment like the lighting control deck is no use to anyone unless they are putting on a stage show,' he said. 'The sound equipment has also been taken and we cannot put on a show without it.

'Rehearsals are in full swing for the February pantomime and we need to sort something out pretty quickly if we are going to stage the pantomime.'

Wayne Roberts, whose shop was burgled, said he felt really downhearted: 'With Christmas round the corner it just gets you down. Yes we can get replacements for what was stolen but I spent all Sunday adding extra security. It is worrying especially when they come around again for another go.'

He said Biscombe's Lane was the main shopping area in Callington and it could do with more lighting at night: 'There are 12 shops here but only two street lights, we could do with more to act as a deterrent.'

PC Jen Williams said CCTV cameras covered the two entrances to Biscombe's Lane and the footage was being examined at the moment, so too were items recovered from the scene.

'More police patrols are also being directed in this area overnight,' she said. 'Can anyone who saw anything suspicious or has information that might help us please give us a call.'

Callington police can be contacted on 08452 777444.