Thieves have ransacked a West End record shop leaving the owner devastated.
Beyond Vinyl, on Westgate Road, was targeted by thieves early on Saturday who made off with £1,000 in cash, as well as an iPad and a small amount of stock, leaving a trail of destruction behind them.
David McGovern, who owns the shop, was left stunned after realising the business had been broken into and fears it may cost thousands to rectify the damage.
Mr McGovern, said: “When I arrived at the store on Saturday morning, everything seemed normal.
“It wasn’t until I went behind the counter and found the till smashed that I realised we had been targeted.”
Upon assessing the damage, Mr McGovern says he believes the culprits broke through the wall above the fire exit to gain access.
They then preceded to break into the office, before moving on to another room, where instead of opening the door, they kicked a 5ft by 2ft hole in the wall to gain entry.
Mr McGovern added: “We are hoping we can get through this and pay the bills that are due, but it is going to be an uphill struggle.
“Our insurance will not cover all monies stolen and won't pay for the repairs until after we have paid for these to be done.
"In November, we were planning to open the basement as an extension of our coffee shop, providing a hangout for live acoustic music. However, the burglary has put this back indefinitely."
Following the break in Mr McGovern set up a Go Fund Me page to raise money towards the repair of his business .
Within hours of going live, the page had received over £500 in donations.
Reflecting on the generosity of the public, Mr McGovern added: "I just wanted to say a massive thank you to everyone that has donated or sent messages of support so far.
"I am totally overwhelmed by all the kind words and generosity of our friends, customers and total strangers.
"I can't thank you all enough and can't find the right words, but all I can say is that you have all helped make this difficult situation a little easier to deal with."
A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: “Shortly after 9.20am on October 12, police received a report of a burglary at Beyond Vinyl on Westgate Road, Newcastle.
“It was reported that a large quantity of cash had been taken from the till after the premises was broken into.
“Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with any information is asked to contact police via 101 using reference number 333 12/10/19.”
