A MEAN-hearted thief stole toys that were meant for needy children.

Dorset Police are investigating after toys from the Echo’s Christmas Toy Appeal were stolen from Tesco’s St Thomas Street store.

The annual Echo Toy Appeal aims to give presents to children and youngsters who would not normally have any.

The children may have suffered abuse, neglect, be living in refuges with their mothers or in care of families who simply cannot afford to buy presents.

Green toy bins have been put in a number of stores across the area and people can just walk in and donate.

In Tesco’s case the opportunistic female thief entered the store and took the gifts between 1.10-1.30pm on Tuesday November 13.

It is believed Tesco staff had placed a black bag in the bin and the woman simply picked this up with all the children’s toys inside.

So far Dorset Police say no one has been arrested and enquiries are ongoing.

Dorset Echo promotions manager Debbie Hellaby said she was ‘really disappointed’ by the crime. She said: “Every single toy that people donate goes to a much needed home.

“Our generous readers have provided thousands of gifts over the years and this is the first time anyone has stooped so low as to steal from our collection bins.”

She added: “Hopefully the thief may have a change of heart and will drop the toys off somewhere so they can be returned in time to be given to a child this Christmas.”

Anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 101.