THE team from Kilwinning's post office say they are heartbroken after the business was raided in an alleged break-in.
Two men have been arrested in connection with the incident on Main Street, as well as another similar incident on nearby Bridgend Lane.
Seymour Stores on Main Street only began operating as a post office late last year, bringing facilities back to the centre of the town after the previous branch closed in early 2023.
Owners Melissa and Tony Fuggle shared their anguish on Friday, July 12, after being alerted to the extensive damage caused.
They also claimed that the alleged thief took just £50 from the store, but left behind damage which they say will cost thousands of pounds to repair.
In a statement shared on social media, they said: "Extremely angry and upset this morning. Please be kind today; we're exhausted and very emotional, and you may find we are very short tempered.
"It's absolutely heartbreaking when you work so hard for someone to try to take it - sometimes wonder why we bother.
"We hope the 50 quid you took, and probably 1000s it's going cost to fix it, was worth it."
The pair have also appealed to any local residents who might be able to help repair the damage caused.
Police Scotland confirmed that their enquiries are ongoing into the reported break-in, alongside a similar incident reported from Bridgend Lane.
It is understood that the Esso petrol station in the area was also targeted.
They say two men have been arrested in connection with the break-ins, which are believed to have taken place in the early hours of the morning.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “On Friday, July 12, we received a reports of break-ins in the Main Street and Bridgend Lane areas of Kilwinning.
“Two men, aged 37 and 40, were arrested in connection and enquiries are ongoing.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here