A shopkeeper who goes "above and beyond" to help the community has been left "saddened" after thieves stole dozens of pies just after they were delivered.
The thieves struck at Broughton Post Office and convenience store on Broughton Hall Road in Flintshire on the morning of Thursday, April 9, taking 70 pies, sausage rolls, pasties and slices.
Mark Griffiths said staff have been left devastated by the incident, especially because they have been going the extra mile to help those struggling during the coronavirus crisis.
He said: "I realised that day we had no pies, pasties and sausage rolls, and thought the company had missed us off.
"Due to how busy we are, I didn't get round to ringing them until Good Friday [April 10], but they were closed until Monday.
"When I called on Monday, they informed me that they had been delivered. It’s at this point between us we knew they’d been taken at some point between 5am and 8am on Thursday morning.
"I am hurt to be honest. Me and the team have been working around the clock to support the local community in many ways, like offering a free delivery service to the elderly and vulnerable.
"I would never see anybody or any family short or struggle, especially in these times. I would much rather someone say they’re struggling and I would do everything possible to help, rather than just be robbed."
Mr Griffiths said around £100 worth of pies produced by Wrexham firm Village Bakery were taken - but he has decided against reporting it to the police.
He said: "We haven't bothered the police with this, as at this time they have a lot more to deal with. What we will say is, if you have seen anyone or do know anything, please do get in touch.
"This was the last thing we expected at these times where communities should be pulling together.
"There’s no CCTV to the rear of the property and no witnesses have come forward from our Facebook post. Therefore, in my eyes, there wouldn't be much the police could do.
"In these times, I appreciate they are stretched. I want to save their availability for people who may have a genuine urgent emergency."
Broughton Post Office is offering a same day delivery service for the elderly, vulnerable and housebound members of the community during the pandemic.
Nearly 200 people have responded to a post on the business's Facebook page, with many praising Mr Griffiths for always "going above and beyond" and labelling the thieves as "disgusting".
Gillian Southall wrote: "So sorry to hear this you do so much for our community. Hope you find out who took them. As someone said earlier it's a good community Broughton and they will be named and shamed xx"
Dena Defrond said: "You all go above and beyond, it's so sad this has happened to you. It's a pleasure to come into your shop and post office, you dont deserve this . Xxx"
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Andrea Gaunt added: "Omg this is terrible- what sort of person does this when all you've done is be there for the community. This is disgusting behaviour and I hope you find who did it x"
Villagers have rallied around to support the store however and have even chipped in to cover the cost of the pies.
Mr Griffiths said: "I would just like to say a massive thank you for all the lovely comments. Also to the customers who very kindly made some donations towards the cost.
"Village Bakery agreed to meet me half way on the price of the pies which was a lovely gesture, and also made a fresh delivery to me on Tuesday morning which they didn't need to do."
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He added that the community's "kind words and acts of kindness" prove that the village is a "strong, close community".
Free home deliveries for people self-isolating or who are vulnerable are available by calling 01244 531246.
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