CHARITY shops are on their guard after being two stores were targeted in distraction thefts.

The Prospect Hospice and Salvation Army shops in Cricklade Road, Gorse Hill, had cash stolen on Monday afternoon.

The scam saw them targeted within 40 minutes of each other.

"We are a soft option, vulnerable, and an easy target," said Marilyne Trotman, the manager of the Salvation Army shop.

"As far as I know nothing like this has happened before but it's a fact of life.

"This was very opportunist and they obviously needed cash.

"We have become a victim of our own success.

"Cash is invisible isn't it - they didn't want credit cards.

"I believe the shop assistant was shaken up a bit, but she will be back in today.

"I think this incident will teach us not to be so comfortable and not be complacent."

Although Marilyne was not in the shop at the time of the incident she said it was hard to spot someone who might want to cause trouble.

"There are no typical looking shoppers," she said.

"We know our regular customers but anyone can come in.

"Young guys come in all the time to buy clothes for stag dos or 70s fashion."

Thieves stole cash from the Salvation Army till at 2.50pm and from Prospect at 3.30pm.

It is not known if the same thief or thieves were responsible for both incidents.

A description has been given to police of a white man who could have been involved in the theft.

He is described as a young, 5ft 6ins, with medium length fair hair, who was wearing a light blue tracksuit.

An ambulance was called to the scene as a precaution as staff were treated for shock.

"It is very disappointing someone has chosen to take money from a shop which is trying to support the work of the Prospect Hospice," said Prospect spokesman Andrew Thompson.

"Hopefully these incidents are rare."

A mum-of-two, who did not want to be named, said: "I think it's disgusting and who ever did this should be ashamed of themselves."

PC Joanna Field from Swindon police, said: "Two charity shops in the Gorse Hill area were subject to distraction thefts where a quantity of cash was taken from both shops.

"We are seeking witnesses to these thefts.

"If anyone knows who these offenders are or has any information could they please get in contact."

Anyone with information is asked to call Swindon police on 0845 408 7000, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.