The owners of Markham Playgroup and the charity who own the building they use have been left „deeply saddened“ by the break-in that occurred in the early hours of Monday, August 12. The burglary saw laptops, cameras, and tablets, which are essential tools for teaching the children how to use computers, being stolen. Markham Playgroup operates within the Markham Miners Welfare Institute, a building with a rich history dating back to its construction in 1928, funded by contributions from miners themselves.
Today, the Markham Miners Welfare Scheme, the charity that manages the Institute, is run by a dedicated team of volunteers who are passionate about preserving the area’s industrial heritage and supporting the local community. The recent break-in has left them devastated, as the stolen items not only impact their operations but also require additional funds for improved security measures.
Chair of the Markham Miners Welfare Scheme, Emma Williams, expressed her deep sadness and concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of the Institute as a symbol of hope and support for the coal mining community. Despite the setback, she remains committed to the charity’s mission and is determined to overcome this challenge.
The community has rallied together in support, with one parent launching a fundraising page to help the playgroup recover from the burglary. Owner of Markham Playgroup, Helen Williams, was touched by the outpouring of support, stating that it demonstrates the care and appreciation the community has for their work. The solidarity shown in the face of adversity has been a source of strength for the affected parties.
Gwent Police have confirmed the details of the burglary and are actively investigating the incident. They have urged anyone with information or relevant CCTV footage to come forward and assist with their enquiries. The stolen items, including two laptops, six tablets, and a camera, are crucial for the educational activities at Markham Playgroup, making their recovery essential for the children’s learning experience.
In response to the burglary, the community is encouraged to donate to Markham Playgroup’s GoFundMe page to help them replace the stolen equipment and enhance their security measures. The generosity and support shown during this challenging time are a testament to the resilience and unity of the local community. Together, they will overcome this setback and emerge stronger than before.