Santa's grotto damaged in Shropshire hotel burglary
Staff at a top Shropshire hotel are working to make sure its Christmas grotto is ready to open on Friday after decorations were damaged during a burglary in which a crossbow was stolen.
The raiders smashed their way through the gates of Hawkstone Park Hotel, near Wem, and stole hand and power tools and a 42in JVC television.
They also entered the hotel's famous caves, which have been transformed into Father Christmas's grotto, damaged some of the decorations and and stole more items.
David Sims, the hotel's general manager, said staff discovered the break-in when they arrived for work.
He said: "Staff members discovered early on Monday morning some suspicious tyre tracks.
"On closer investigation we found the criminals broke into the Santa grotto and made a mess of it. They also stole some equipment from the area.
"It has added a day's work for staff who have been working hard to making the grotto look magical.
"The thieves went on to smash through the gates to the hall and cause more damage before stealing a crossbow and television.
"My teams were all really upset because a lot of work goes into the grotto. We were all very angry initially but have calmed down now and got back into the Christmas spirit. We will still be ready to open the grotto on Friday."
Police are eager to hear from anyone who witnessed the burglary or who saw a white Renault Kangoo van in the area at the time of the burglary, which took place between 5pm on Sunday and 6.30am on Monday.
Officers have released a CCTV image of the van and wish to speak with the driver who may be able to help with their inquiries.
A spokeswoman for West Mercia Police said: "The van was seen in the area at the time of the burglary and the driver may have vital information."
Call police on 101 with any information, Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org
