Two men were filmed appearing to climb into a fountain to fish out money thrown in by shoppers for charity.
A shocking video shared on social media captures the moment the pair went fishing for charity money in the fountain of the Emett Clock at Nottingham’s Victoria Centre.
The incident happened around 6pm Saturday, December 17, and surprised shoppers were caught off guard watching the incident, NottinghamshireLive reported.
Footage of the event shows the two men wading around the shallow fountain picking up a number of coins.
They seemingly ignored efforts from members of the public to talk to them as they grabbed a handful of money before jumping out again.
Chloe Shanon, a mum-of-three, who witnessed and recorded the event, said: "I just could not believe it. There were so many families asking the lads if they needed any money."
The 24-year-old, from Kimberley, continued: "They were so oblivious, they did not respond. They were only talking between themselves.
"I just cannot believe that anyone could do something like this. It was horrible." My child was asking why they were taking the money. I just told him that they are being naughty."
Chloe said that after snatching the money the men then ran off.
The coins are 'penny wishes', with all the donations received being given to charity.
A spokesperson for Victoria Centre said CCTV footage has been handed to police.
Chloe added: "It was horrible to watch. Who would steal charity money?"
A spokesperson for Victoria Centre, said: “We can confirm that an incident took place at the centre on Saturday 17 December. It appears that two individuals climbed into the fountain of the Emett Clock, taking some of the coins that have been thrown in there.
“For many years, our shoppers have kindly made ‘penny wishes’ at the Emett Clock, with all of the donations received being given to our chosen charities.
“It is upsetting for everyone to see the blatant disregard that is being shown for the generosity of others and the vital work that charities in our city carry out – particularly so close to Christmas.
“CCTV footage has been handed to Nottinghamshire Police and anyone with information on the incident should contact them directly.”
Nottinghamshire Police has been approached for comment.
