HEARTLESS youths stole vital donations from a Wirral farm last night.

The gang broke into Tam O’Shanter's Urban Farm at around 8.30pm to take the cash left in a special donations box.

It is thought the box contained around £20 - but the incident has left warden Andrew McCulloch angry as the farm relies on the public’s generosity.

Mr McCulloch, whose home is within the farm's grounds, said: “I was putting my son to bed when I noticed youths outside.

"It’s not a lot of money that has been taken but the cost of repairing the damage is much greater.

“This sort of thing has happened before and it has got to stop."

He said the farm is an integral part of the local community: "I hope the culprits realise that they have done wrong and will stay away and not do it again.

"Tam O’ Shanter receives contributions from Wirral Council but we rely on donation from visitors for everyday costs."

Police have been informed and CCTV footage is being sought.

Neighbourhood Inspector Roy McGregor said: "It is completely unacceptable that a valuable community resource such as this has been targeted in this way.

"Organisations like Tom O'Shanter rely heavily on public support for financial aid, and officers are working hard to find those responsible."

Anyone with information can call Merseyside Police on 0151 777 2342.