THE chief executive of Dorothy House Hospice Care has voiced his frustration after the charity had £130,000 stolen from their bank account. 

John Davies has annouced that the charity have launched a full-scale investigation into the fraud after the money was stolen following a "sophisticated" phone call on Tuesday, May 16. 

He said: “That such a despicable crime can be targeted at a charity like Dorothy House makes me extremely angry and is an affront to the amazing work and support of our community, staff and our volunteers.

"Fortunately, no confidentiality or patient or family care was affected by this incident and there is no financial risk to the charity due to strong contingency planning.

“We have alerted other local hospices to help them avoid any similar fraud and we are constantly vigilant of all aspects of online security and are well protected against cyber-attacks like the recent ransomware virus affecting parts of the NHS.

"Looking ahead, we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that Dorothy House and its funds are secure and will continue to deliver the outstanding care for which we are renowned.”

The charity are now working together with the police, banks, trustees and insurers as well as Bishop Fleming, a professional forensic investigation company, to see if the money can be recovered.