Charity shop staff have claimed that donations left outside their branch are being urinated on, set on fire or stolen. Workers and volunteers at the store, which helps sick and unwanted animals, were left shocked and angry to find items deposited overnight either damaged, sodden or half burnt.
The incidents have been blamed on a rise in anti-social behaviour in the area. Local police have since stepped up their number of nightly patrols in order to keep a closer eye on the shop after hours.
"There appears to be a range of people doing this and we are aware of things being taken most nights," said Carl Lloyd from the RSPCA. "It is very sad to think that people are resorting to this and would urge anyone who is struggling to seek help."
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North Wales Live reported that a donation bin was recently introduced at the front of the shop, which is on Mostyn Avenue in Llandudno. However, black bags filled with items are still being left both on top of it and on the floor outside the branch during the evening.
"It means as well as donations being taken in the night, we're see things being thrown about, people urinating on the items and some even trying to set fire to them," added Carl. "We are saddened and concerned about this and would urge those donating anything that won't fit in the donation bin to hand items to a staff member when we are open.."
The RSPCA's Aberconwy branch has run a charity shop in the town for more than 20 years. You can find more information about the shop and the type of items they accept on their Facebook page.
Carl added,""We have some fantastic supporters in Llandudno and from the surrounding areas and we’d like to thank everyone who has made donations to us or visited our shop. We couldn't do what we do for the animals in our area without them."
A police spokesperson said: "We have received reports of anti-social behaviour and ‘fly tipping’ late at night, at the RSPCA shop on Mostyn Avenue, Craig Y Don. Local officers have spoken to the RSPCA and have increased patrols in the area.
"Anyone with any information regarding these ongoing incidents should contact us via our live webchat online. They can also call 101 quoting reference B078969."
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