THIEVES stole a box of 100 beefburgers from a barbecue at Purton carnival.

Organisers of the carnival which raises cash for needy people in the village are dismayed at the theft.

Lynda Warren, chairman of the carnival committee, said: "I can't believe that anyone could be so nasty as to steal from an event which raises money for elderly and disabled people.

"Everyone was really upset and angry, and one person made an announcement over the public address system saying as much.

"A lot of people had given up their spare time to organise the carnival."

The barbecue was held in the Common Field on Vasterne Hill as part of a fete which marked the end of two weeks of activities.

The box was taken from behind a van which was shielding the barbecue from the wind.

The carnival committee bought the burgers from Purton butcher J.A. Harris.

Kind-hearted staff reduced the bill to compensate for the loss.

Cash raised from the carnival goes towards the Purton Helping Hand, which supports local people in need.

Highlights of the carnival fortnight included a talent contest, a teddy bears' picnic, fashion show and a model railway exhibition.