Early Years Lightcliffe is a committee-run, not-for-profit nursery that runs play sessions at Christ Church Centre.

Sam Pearson, the nursery manager, discovered the first break-in on Sept. 4 when he noticed the building’s doors had been broken open.

“We couldn’t believe it. We’re in an old church building with old doors, they broke the glass panel and used a rock to get in.”

On this occasion, £500 was taken from his office in the 150-year-old building. It was donated at fundraising discos and cake sales.

“All the money we raise goes to the kids – resources, parties or day trips.

“It took a lot of effort to raise it.”