Funds are being raised for a group of volunteers in Greenwich after their urban wildlife haven was broken into by burglars, causing "significant" losses.

The Friends of Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park say the break-in was a "major setback" for the charity just as they were planning to reopen their park to the public following lockdown.

The Ecology Park is a 'wildlife haven' unusually located in a dense urban area, owned by the Land Trust Charity and managed by a group of volunteers.

It is "much loved by the local community", with regular community and school visits, events, holiday activities and volunteering opportunities.

The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

News Shopper: The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology ParkThe Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

But the group of volunteers have been forced to ask the public for funds to make vital repairs after burglars broke into the park in the Greenwich Peninsula on Easter Sunday.

The group said the protected inner area of the Ecology Park was broken into with the intent of burglary.

Senior Warden, Joanne Smith, discovered the damage from the break-in while carrying out daily site checks on Easter Monday. 

The burglars caused significant damage to the volunteer tool shed, smashing half the door, and four wellie boot storage containers which will largely have to be completely replaced.

The items stolen are not described as high value to criminals, but have left significant dent in the charity's finances which they can ill afford to repair.

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The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

So a fundraiser, launched by Joanne Smith, is raising money for the Friends of Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park t buy three new secure containers, as well as extra willow fencing to block a weak point of entry into the nature reserve in one corner.

The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

"Every donation will help us and is so much appreciated," Joanne said.

The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

The Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park

"Thank you in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to the staff, volunteers and the local community."

The charity has already received over £2,000 in funds. The read more or donate, click here.

The charity has also received support from councillors, businesses and local residents, leaving the team "much comforted."