Theft of valuable saxophone leaves Blackpool's Brian House Children's Hospice out of pocket
“This wasn’t just a saxophone. It was a gift from somebody in our community who wanted to make life a little easier for children and families facing incredibly difficult circumstances.”
A stolen saxophone has left a local children’s hospice facing a £250 loss in vital funding that would have helped support children with life-limiting conditions and their families.
The Conn alto saxophone, believed to have been manufactured in 1979 and in excellent condition for its age, was taken from the window display of the Brian House charity shop in Kirkham.
The instrument had been generously donated to the shop, with proceeds from its sale earmarked to support Brian House Children’s Hospice, which provides specialist care and support for Fylde coast children with complex needs and life-limiting conditions.
Police are investigating the theft, but in the meantime, staff, volunteers and supporters have been left saddened by the loss.
Gary Heyes, manager of the Brian House Book and Music Shop on Poulton Street, said: “We were devastated to discover the saxophone had been stolen. It was a beautiful instrument that someone had kindly donated to help support local children and families.
“Every item on our shelves represents somebody’s generosity, and every sale helps fund the care provided by Brian House.”
While the saxophone carried a price tag of £250, hospice leaders say its true value was far greater.
Chief Executive, David Houston, said: “This wasn’t just a saxophone. It was a gift from somebody in our community who wanted to make life a little easier for children and families facing incredibly difficult circumstances.
“When people donate items to our shops, they’re doing so in the hope that their generosity will help fund specialist care, create precious memories and provide support when families need it most. The loss of this donation means £250 less for that care.
“What gives us hope is knowing that our community is built on kindness. Every day we see people donating, volunteering and shopping in our stores and fundraising for Brian House.
“We know that one act of selfishness will never outweigh the compassion shown by so many local people.
“If hearing this story inspires someone to donate a quality item, pop into one of our shops, volunteer their time or make a contribution to Brian House, then something positive can still come from this disappointing loss.”
Brian House relies heavily on the support of the local community to fund its specialist care for children and young people from across Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre. It is the second-least funded children’s hospice in the country, receiving just 11% of its costs from the government.
Lancashire Police have been approached for comment.
Anyone with information about the theft is urged to call police on 101.