CCTV footage captures thief raiding a popular South Shields café

CCTV footage has captured a thief targeting Sea Change Café in the early hours of Friday morning (June 26).

Footage shared by the Ocean Road venue shows a masked thief attempting to gain access to the till.

It is understood that the person forced access to premise at around 1.50am by breaking a window.

Police have stated that a sum of money and an iPad were reported stolen from the café.

It is the latest in a spate of criminal incidents targeting the popular café, which provides employment opportunities to people with autism and other additional needs to help them build confidence and skills.

Sarah Farrell-Forster, the owner of Sea Change, has previously told the Shields Gazette about the impact it has on the business and its members of staff.

Northumbria Police has launched an investigation into the incident and are calling for anyone with information to come forward.

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A spokesperson for the Force said: “At around 9.20am on Friday (June 26), we received a report of a burglary in South Shields.

"It was reported that, in the early hours of Friday, a person forced entry into a premises on Ocean Road after breaking a window."

“A sum of money was also reported to have been stolen, as well as an iPad.

“An investigation has been launched and enquires are ongoing to locate those responsible.

“Anyone who has any information or witnessed anything suspicious in the area at the time, should contact us via social media or on our website.

“Those who are unable to contact us online, should call 101.

“Please quote the reference number: 26000385236.”