A MESSAGE of community spirit and solidarity has spread throughout West Devon — and the internet — after the popular Green Hut in Tavistock was burgled.

Overnight on June 3 to 4 between 4.30pm and 10.20am the door to the Green Hut in the Meadows was forced open and burglars entered through a small gap and stole a quantity of cash and stock.

Since the incident came to light, people from Tavistock, Okehampton, Princetown, Plymouth and surrounding villages have joined a campaign to show their support to Green Hut owner Dawn Sheasby who has been left 'heartbroken' by the incident.

Set up by her family last Friday, the #supportingdawn public group on Facebook now has more than 1,150 members, most of whom have fond memories of the hut.

Dawn, who has owned and run the hut for 13 years, said she was overwhelmed at everyone's 'unbelievable support' shown to her and her family.

'I can't believe this — it's overwhelming. I am mum to hundreds down there so I have found it hard to think that someone could do this but the reaction shown by people has been absolutely astonishing and so kind — it restores your faith in people.

'I want to thank everyone for their unbelievable support.'

Dawn's daughter-in-law Jade Amy Eales set up the Facebook group and said that Dawn had 'always given so much to the local community over the years that it was time 'we give something back'.

Jade said: 'Dawn's devastated and would do anything for anyone. Nothing like this has ever happened and that's why it's such a shock.

'Dawn said to me that "it breaks my heart that it could be someone that I could have cared about".

'So many people have shown their support for Dawn that we decided to start a hashtag campaign on Facebook and since then it has grown — it is fantastic.

'We are giving back to someone who has given so much to the community by holding a fun day in the Meadows with a raffle and a mini "beat the goalie tournament" all to raise some funds towards replacing what was taken.'

The day will be held on Saturday, June 13 at 11am in the Meadows where there will be plenty of fun for all the family, an auction and a raffle.

Jade added: 'Dawn is a credit to Tavistock. We hope to see as many of you as possible at this event.'

Tavistock police sergeant Dave Anning said: 'The owner has a great relationship with the young people of the town and it is hoped somebody will hear who is responsible.'

If anyone has any information, call PC Thompson at Tavistock police on 101 quoting crime reference number CR/038684/15.