Thieves sunk to a new low after stealing the prize from a charity shop’s Christmas raffle.

The callous criminals struck sometime between Monday afternoon and Tuesday at Shoreham’s Children’s Society – leaving staff to come up with a replacement.

Store manager Lynn King branded the culprits as “heartless” and called on parents to be on the lookout for anyone trying to sell a white and sparkly teddy bear.

He said: “I think it’s disgusting that anyone could steal from a charity shop.

“But to take the prize from a Christmas raffle is just despicable.

“They are going to have to live with themselves.

“All I can say is that I hope it ends with a deserving child this Christmas.”

Mr King, 59, launched the Children’s Society shop in East Street in November 2012.

Continuing economic problems have seen shop donations fall, with stock dangerously low.

As a way to raise some much-needed cash for the charity, shop staff launched a special Christmas raffle with the teddy the top draw.

A special Christmas window was put in with advertising promoting the charity raffle throughout the shop.

He added: “Whoever took the bear was in no doubt as to what it was for.

“It was donated by one of our volunteers so we’ll never get another one like it.

“It was white and sparkly with red paws and a big red bow.

“I don’t know exactly when it was taken but it was sometime between Monday afternoon and Tuesday.

“I just can’t believe someone would do something like this. It’s disgraceful.

“I know it is only a teddy bear but it’s the principle.”

Staff are appealing for donations in the run-up to Christmas.

The shop is open Mondays to Saturdays between 9am and 5pm for drop-offs.

Alternatively call them on 01273 455077.