POLICE are appealing for information after a community hall in Swindon was broken into overnight.

Between 3pm on Sunday and 9.45am this morning, a man is believed to have used a hammer to smash the fire exit glass to the John Moulton Hall in Penhill Drive.

The offender then entered the main hall and stole a 40-inch television which is used by many local community groups, including the youth club.

PC Eric Frempong said: "The John Moulton Hall is funded by charitable organisations and most of the items have therefore been donated to them.

"The television which has been stolen was used regularly by many of the local community groups, who are desperate to have it returned in one piece.

"A thorough investigation is currently being carried out and I am appealing to any members of the public to come forward if they saw or heard anything suspicious in the area during these times."

The suspect is believed to be a white man, aged between 16 and 25 years old. It is believed he was wearing a dark hooded top.

Anyone with information should call PC Frempong at Gablecross Police Station on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.