"IT'S a horrible thing to discover."

Those are the words of the manager of Romsey Young Carers after the community charity was burgled.

The organisation supports young people who are caring for others across Romsey and lower Test Valley.

That includes offering respite and the chance to learn new skills and support.

Last week, the charity had cash stolen after burglars with "a crowbar" broke in. Not only that, but a brand new bike to be raffled off as a prize was also taken.

Chris Hall, the manager of Romsey Young Carers said everyone at the site, on Romsey Industrial Estate, was disappointed.

Chris said: "Petty cash was stolen, as was our bike that we were going to raffle off as part of our family fun day.

"We are all very disappointed that somebody, or a group, may do something like this.

"They came through the academy studios and right through the building. They broke into filing cabinets and took our funds.

"It must have come between 8pm and 7.30am the next day. It was a horrible thing to discover."

Police say they have launched an investigation after the burglary overnight on June 6.

Hampshire Constabulary said; "We're investigating a burglary which took place at a dance studio on the Romsey Industrial Estate.

"Overnight on June 6, damage was caused to windows and doors at the site. Enquiries are on-going.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 44180211447."

Despite the theft, administrator at Romsey Young Carers, Lisa Treasure, said a charity and local company, who did not disclose their identity, had offered to replace the cash and the bike that were stolen, meaning the charity's summer raffle can still go ahead.

Lisa said: "The raffle which takes place at our family fun day for young carers and their families is one of our big fundraisers for the year and having the first prize stolen was a blow.

"With the bike being replaced, we are able to run the raffle. Tickets will be available from the end of June from Romsey Young Carers to the general public if anyone would like to purchase one. They only cost £1 and as we are a self-funding charity with no statutory funding, we need to raise as much money as possible.

"It would be marvellous if we could sell all the tickets and some good come from a distressing event."