A Cancer Research shop has resorted to installing CCTV inside and out because shoplifting and fly-tipping there has become so widespread.

Rusty old washing machines, ripped sofas and boxes of rubbish have been dumped at the back of the charity shop in Ferndown by locals too lazy to take them to the tip.

It's costing the store around £240 a month to dispose of - wasting funds that should be for the benefit of cancer sufferers.

Manager Alex Collis said: "This isn't a case of people leaving things outside that they think we could sell. They are just trying to get rid of rubbish and it's happening all the time.

"We had CCTV installed on Friday and over the weekend more rubbish was dumped, but this time in an area the camera can't reach.

"We get left dirty clothes and broken china. I wish people would stop dumping their unwanted stuff on us when there are tips down the road they could use. I have to pay for extra collections for the bin men at least twice a month - money which could go to better use raising funds for Cancer Research."

The charity shop also has a big problem with shoplifters.

Alex added: "People either go into the changing rooms and put their clothing onto a hanger and walk off in our stock or they just take the stuff and walk out. People of all ages are responsible - including OAPs.

"They are sick individuals to be nicking from a charity shop.

"It's not expensive to shop here. The average garment costs £2.50."

Earlier this year thieves broke into Alex's office at the store, smashing a rear door and making off with £9 from a collection box.

But his faith in humanity has been restored slightly after Automated System Services from Fareham donated and installed the CCTV equipment.

And he concedes the shop relies on donations of quality goods from more generous locals. He added: "We do get lots of that."

First published: September 7