TWO friends have been left devastated after thieves broke into their cars stealing a handbag, credit cards, phone, keys and cash while they were left parked at Arrow Valley Lake.
Within minutes the thieves were trying to use one of the cards – without success – to get cash out at nearby Morrisons supermarket.
Now Linda Harrison and Ann Davis are warning people to be on their guard when they visit the popular park in case the thieves strike again.
“It has been absolutely dreadful – we are devastated and this has shattered our confidence about visiting the lake,” said Linda, aged 67.
Strolling around the lake then having a coffee had fast become a twice a week habit for the two keep fit pals but last week they changed their normal walk days and pulled up at the car park nearest the cafe on Friday (July 31) at 9.30am.
“I didn’t really need anything with me so I put my handbag in the boot of my car and we set off, however the thief must have seen me do it,” said Linda, a grandmother.
The yobs made short work of the cars, smashing the rear windscreens, before prising open the boot, taking a screwdriver to the back of Ann’s car and in the process causing over £600 worth of damages.
“It must have happened shortly after we left because by 10.30am a man had seen the damage and already called the police,” said Linda.
“It’s caused enormous upset, I’ve had to cancel all my cards, change the locks in the house, transfer money off the phone.”
Sgt Neil Billingham of Redditch police said: “We have no reason to believe that vehicles parked here are at risk. I would like to reassure the public and visitors to Arrow Valley Lake that this is an area we patrol regularly both on foot and on bicycles.”
