CHARITY volunteers were left “gutted” after heartless thieves stole two hand-crafted picnic benches that were used for fundraising activities.

Crooks struck on Friday (July 8) night, carrying the benches – funded by grants and crafted by a volunteer – from the recreation ground in Wix Road, Ramsey.

The benches were to be used to accommodate some of the of visitors who turned out in support at a charity event on Saturday.

A teddy bears' picnic and family fun day raised money for a new special needs playgroup.

Suzanne Howe, secretary of the group, said: “It was absolutely gutting to learn of the theft of these benches, benches that we as a charity received grant funding for and that were hand-made for us.

“This is the first time we have had problems like this – the most disappointing factor is they were clearly a visitor to the park.

“The benches are behind the play area, so you wouldn’t know they were there.”

On Friday, the charity announced the benches had been returned, thanks to "the power of social media and a vigilant member of the public."