CCTV hunt after cash stolen in community centre raid

The Calton Centre in Montgomery Street, Leith, was broken into in the early hours of Friday, November 30.

Now staff have put out a picture of someone they believe may be able to help solve the case.

The culprit stole the petty cash box after smashing their way in at around 4am, leaving the centre £500 out of pocket.

Owner and proprietor Barbara Brandt posted an image of a man seen wearing a hooded top and glasses on stairs leading to the centre earlier in the evening, who they believe may be able to provide information on what happened.

She said: “I was so angry. The person who broke in smashed the window, kicked in the office door, pulled apart two filing cabinets and took the cash book which had cash and cheques inside.”

The Calton Centre opened its doors to clients as a  privately-run community centre in March 2011 and is home to a range of community groups, dance classes, religious groups and other activities.

Ms Brandt added: “At the moment, I’m working 60 hours a week so this is the last thing I need.

“I’m not sure if I will be able to claim anything on the insurance. Now I’m going to have to dip into another fund to make sure my staff get paid and I’m going to have to tell my clients that I would prefer not to be paid in cash.

“This is the first time anything like his has happened.”

A Gothic church, the Calton Centre was formerly the Kirk Memorial Evangelical Union Church and was built in 1895.

Leith Walk councillor Gordon Munro said: “This is a crime against the community. It’s a real shame because the staff are trying to make a real effort to keep the centre going and a crime like this totally undermines their efforts.”

A Lothian and Borders Police spokesman said: “Police are investigating following a break-in and theft from a community centre in Montgomery Street.

“Officers are currently following a positive line of inquiry. However, anyone who can assist with our investigation is asked to come forward.”