Barrow waffle shop targeted for second time in three weeks
A Barrow food business has suffered criminal damage for the second time in just three weeks.
Fully Loaded at Waffle Time, on Portland Walk, was targeted again on July 5.
The latest incident followed an earlier break-in between June 12 and 13, when the till and card payment system were also damaged.
Business hit twice within weeks
Owner Jamie Thorpe said he was heartbroken by the repeated attacks on the shop.
The first incident caused damage to key equipment used to serve customers and take payments. Less than a month later, the business was targeted again.
Repeated incidents can cause major disruption for a small business. Alongside repair costs, damaged tills and payment systems can affect daily trading and make it harder to serve customers.
CCTV and other evidence handed to police
Mr Thorpe confirmed that police are investigating the incidents.
He said a significant amount of evidence had been gathered, including CCTV footage, which could help officers identify those responsible.
Cumbria Police has not yet confirmed whether the two incidents are being formally linked.
Other Barrow businesses reportedly targeted
Mr Thorpe said the problem appears to extend beyond his own business.
Several other establishments in Barrow have also reportedly been targeted in recent weeks, raising wider concerns among local traders.
Break-ins and criminal damage can leave business owners facing lost income, higher security costs and added stress.
Appeal for information
Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity around Portland Walk on July 5, or during the earlier incident between June 12 and 13, should contact Cumbria Police.
Information can be reported online or by calling 101.
Anyone who sees a crime taking place should call 999.
