BARROW’S Independent MP John Woodcock has called on heartless thieves targeting charity shops to turn themselves in.

The call comes after thieves targeted two charity shops in Barrow in separate incidents.

On Monday, a brazen thief snatched a work of art from Cancer Research UK’s store on Dalton Road, while the next day the same charity’s superstore, on Hindpool Road, had a limited edition painting stolen.

Mr Woodcock, said: “It’s pretty terrible to hear there are people out there who would stoop so low as to steal from a charity shop.

“If these people have a shred of a conscience, I would hope they can realise how awful their actions are and do the right thing by returning the paintings and turning themselves in.

“They’ve stolen from those most in need by depriving CRUK of the vital cash for their research and operations.

“In the meantime, I hope the good people of Barrow can come together to support our Cancer Research branches and other charity shops with any donations you might have.”

Director of Trading at Cancer Research UK, Julie Byard, said: “Unfortunately two paintings have been stolen from our shops in Barrow this week.

“An oil painting worth £80 was taken from the window of the Cancer Research UK superstore on Hindpool Road, and a painting worth £50 was taken from the top shelf of our Cancer Research UK store in Dalton Road.

“Incidents like this are sad.”

Police confirmed they were called to both incidents between July 29 to July 30.