Poppy Appeal tin thefts 'increasing'

Charity fundraisers for the Royal British Legion have reported that more than 30 collection tins have been stolen in Surrey.

The 33 Poppy Appeal tins were taken from supermarkets, shops, petrol stations, medical centres, cafes and churches around the county.

The charity said there had been a "massive increase" in the theft of collecting tins this year.

Each collection tin is estimated to hold between £50 and £75.

A Poppy Appeal spokesperson said: "I cannot believe how low people can go as to steal money from poppy tins, money that is needed to help our injured servicemen and women in need."

Seven of the collection tins were stolen in Woking and four in Guildford.

Surrey Police are investigating the thefts.