Police are investigating the theft of Poppy Appeal charity boxes on the Isle of Wight.

One box was reported stolen from the counter of the ‘Just Homes’ store in Ryde High Street sometime between 9.00am and 12.15pm on Wednesday, November 4th, 2009.

A second box was reported stolen between 2.00pm and 4.00pm on the same day from the counter of ‘Lloyds Pharmacy’ in the High Street in Ventnor.

East Wight Safer Neighbourhoods Inspector Bill Pinnell said: 

“Police believe this was disgraceful behaviour that showed a lack of respect for the valuable support provided by the Poppy Appeal to service personnel and their families.

“I would call on those responsible to think about the consequences of these thefts, and contact police to admit to their actions.

“I’m appealing to members of the public to give officers any information about what happened to demonstrate that our communities will not tolerate crimes against service personnel and their families, who make sacrifices for the freedoms we enjoy today.”

Anyone with information is asked to phone Ryde Police Station on 101. Information can be given anonymously by phoning the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. Mini-Com users can call 01962 875000. From outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, call police on 0845 045 45 45.