EXCLUSIVE:Rainham allotments robbed as thieves break in and take vegetables and tools from plots.

Allotment anger as the produce grown provides so much support for the community.

Two thieves were caught on CCTV breaking into the Rainham allotments last week and leaving with bags of vegetables and tools. Plot holders were saddened to see their vegetables gone, alongside their tools when they arrived.

The allotments are well known in the borough and very popular amongst local residents. The food grown there is used for many families throughout the winter months and also donated to The Ship cafe that then distribute it every Tuesday to those in need at their foodbank.

Councillor Jackie McArdle who is a member of the allotments, told the Havering Daily: “We are re-inforcing the gates now and putting anti climb paint on.

“People here are struggling and these allotments are used for families to help them throughout the winter months.

“It really is soul destroying to see the damage done to the plots and the theft of people’s vegetables and their tools.

“We know these are hard times for everyone, but there are people and places that can help those in need such as The Ship cafe.”

Vegetables from the allotments are given each week to The Ship who then use it for cooking to help those in need and also give it away to families.

Every Tuesday afternoon, the cafe is open to those who maybe homeless, struggling or in need to pop along and have free meals or collect free vegetables that are laid out for people to take.

Yesterday, The Havering Daily joined the joined the staff at The Ship to see the incredible work they do supporting those in their community.

Councillor Jackie McArdle was present working alongside Carol Baker and other local volunteers. There was plenty of local produce available for people to take away, alongside fantastic home made meals being served.

This cafe in the heart of Rainham provides incredible support for all members of their community and their volunteers do a fantastic job there each week.

Councillor McArdle finished: “It is soul destroying for us to see the allotment broken into.It provides so much help and support for our local community.”

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