THE owner of a children's role play centre has thanked customers for their support after they were targeted by burglars. 

Thieves stole a till containing £40 cash from I Wanna Be Role Play Village in Abbotswood Road shortly before 12.30am on Friday, April 12. 

The business, which encourages imaginative play for children up to six years old, opened in February 2020. 

Katie Betteridge, 51, said: "The people carrying out these sorts of crimes have no idea what sort of damage they do to small businesses and their communities, there's no consideration for the effect it can have.

Hampshire Chronicle: Katie Betteridge Katie Betteridge (Image: Mark Paine)

"That said, this happened on the same evening as the incident on Winchester Hill (Joe Godden) which helps to put things in perspective. Luckily only the till was taken, there was no damage done to the equipment and most importantly, no one was hurt.

"I'd love to send out a massive thank you for all the support we have received, so many lovely messages and emails which help to keep a smile on our face. Thank you for all the kind words."

Katie, a mum of two, said she was called by police around 3am informing her of the break in. 

She said she suspected the burglars may have also been trying to get into the Co-op which is located next door. 

Hampshire Chronicle: I Wanna Be Role Play Centre in Romsey

The play centre was quick to buy a new till, and it managed to stay open over the weekend. 

However, the business has been left counting the costs. 

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said they were investigating.

They said: "We received reports of a burglary at I Wanna Be Role Play Village on Abbotswood Road shortly before 12.30am on Friday, April 12. A cash till was reported to have been taken from the premises. Officers attended and an investigation has been launched.”

Hampshire Chronicle: I Wanna Be Role Play Centre in Romsey

As well as children's role play sessions, I Wanna Be Role Play Village allows adults to relax with a cuppa  at its café area while the children play, and it also holds birthday parties. 

The centre is open from 9.30am until 5.30pm seven days a week and it runs sessions from 9.30am – 11.30am, 12.30pm – 2.30pm and 3.30pm – 5.30pm. 

Entry costs £8 for the first child, additional children are £6.75, while non-walkers are free. Adults do also need tickets, the first adult is £2, additional adults are £3.25. 

To book go to iwannabe.co.uk/