THREE charity boxes have been stolen from shops in the same street.

The thefts occurred within days of each other in a Prospect Hospice charity shop, a Salvation Army charity shop and The Ninety Niner store in Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill.

The box stolen from The Ninety Niner general store was collecting money for the Swindon Cancer Appeal the cause which aims to raise £600,000 for Macmillan nurses in Swindon over the next three years.

Bridget Lambert, 49, who works in the shop, is said: "I lost my husband Joe to cancer and his Macmillan nurse was wonderful. You can't sink any lower than this it is the worst possible crime."

Police are examining CCTV footage of the theft, which occurred last Wednesday.

The other thefts took place on Friday.

Jeanne Leahy, manager of the Prospect Hospice shop, said: "The saddest thing is that it doesn't shock me any more. We have had charity boxes and raffle ticket money stolen before."

The Prospect Hospice, in Wroughton, helps people with serious illnesses, such as cancer.

The charity launches its annual Sunflower Appeal on Saturday.

Gillian Richardson, community fundraiser for Prospect, said: "This happens about once every four months.

"Although it is very upsetting, the amazing generosity of the majority of people in Swindon makes up for the loss."

It is the first time a charity box has been stolen from the Salvation Army shop.

Shop manager Ian Loxley said: "It is sad that people stoop so low. We are considering installing CCTV cameras to resolve the problem."

Anyone with information should contact the police on Swindon 528111.