A charity in Tiptree received a free security system after they were burgled last June.

Local fire and security team MTECH installed new alarms free of charge for St Helena’S Hospice after they were broken into.

Thieves stole items and caused hundreds of pounds of damage to the shop ‘2 The Centre’.

The hospice posted about the break in on social media, appealing for information, and were approached by Michael Harridge, owner of the security company.

Karen Stokes, St Helena Hospice’s Retail Area Manager, said: “We are so grateful to MTECH for the generosity and kindness they have shown us.

“We were saddened by the break-in at our shop, particularly as the large bill for the damage caused could have been better spent providing care and support to local people facing incurable illness and bereavement.

“When MTECH came forward and offered to install an alarm for us for free, they helped to restore some faith in humanity.

“Hopefully the alarm will be enough of a deterrent to stop any future thieves.”

Michael Harridge, MTECH’s owner said: “It’s such a shame that the good work of a charity can be hampered by people that would stoop so low.

“We are glad that we can help to prevent this happening again.”

St Helena Hospice has 18 shops across North Essex and all the money raised goes towards providing its services in people’s homes, over the phone 24/7, through day therapies, and at The Hospice.