Peterborough barber voices gratitude for public's help after three break--ins over eight days

Antonio Dizzano, who runs Hair Craft, in Lincoln Road, close to the Morrisons supermarket, said he was hugely grateful for the public’s support following the repeated break-ins that saw equipment worth more than £4,000 stolen and extensive damage to the premises.

Friends also set up a Gofundme page to help Mr Dizzano cope with the financial cost of the damage to equipment and property, and which has already raised £495.

Mr Dizzano said: “I am incredibly grateful for all the support shown by local people.

"It does make a big difference to me.”

The first of the break-ins took place on July 17 at about 1am and was followed by a second on July 20 with the third taking place on July 24.

Glass windows and a reinforced glass door were smashed and are estimated to cost £2,000 to repair.

A range of equipment such as hairdryers and scissors totalling more than £4,000 were also stolen.

Mr Dizzano said: “We are still boarded up but it is business as usual, although it is a rough time for us.

"We are very busy already with lots of people coming in and we are able to cover our expenses.

He said: “We are going to have to invest in shutters for the premises.

He added: “We are insured but that will take time to pay out. I guess it might mean the cost of insurance for us will go up.”

The Gofundme appeal urged people to help Hair Craft and states: "These repeated break-ins have not only caused severe financial damage to equipment and property, but they have also taken a massive emotional toll.

“Insurance doesn't cover everything, and the cost of repairs, replacing stolen equipment, and upgrading security measures is mounting.”

The Gofundme page can be found here at Support Tony and Okai: Help rebuild Peterborough Barbershop

• Police say a man has been charged with three counts of burglary and possession of heroin was due to appear at Peterborough Magistrates’ Court on July 27.