HUNDREDS of pounds of charity money could have been lost after a callous opportunist ripped open a parcel left on a shop doorstep.The parcel had been left behind a gate on the doorstep of the RSPCA shop in Carr Street, Ipswich.

HUNDREDS of pounds of charity money could have been lost after a callous opportunist ripped open a parcel left on a shop doorstep.

The parcel had been left behind a gate on the doorstep of the RSPCA shop in Carr Street, Ipswich.

But the thief spotted it and ripped it open, making off with a cargo of Christmas cards and calendars that would have raised money to help sick animals.

Furious assistant manager Janet Smith said the thief should be ashamed of themselves for stealing the cards.

She said: "I just hope they feel guilty and ashamed of themselves.

"If they don't like people they should at least think of the poor animals who have done nothing to them."

It is not the first time the shop has been hit. Over the weekend both windows were smashed and staff are frequently greeted by foot high piles of rubbish that has been dumped on the doorstep when they arrive at work.

Ms Smith, who has worked at the shop since April said: "Everyone here is so sad.

"We are working doubly hard to raise money for a charity here.

"It is very, very sad that someone should do this."

All the money made at the shop goes to the Animal Rescue Centre in Martlesham Heath that takes in unwanted or abandoned pets.

Fundraising makes up the rest of the money to keep the place operating.

Ms Smith believes it was delivered anytime between 6am and 8.30am and she arrived at work at 8.45am.

Not all the cards and calendars were stolen, but those that were, were Dog Lovers calendars, Cat Lovers Calendars and humorous dog and cat calendars.

There were also boxes of Christmas cards showing white Terrier dogs, called Wishing on a Star and large multi packs of cards.

Some of the cards will have RSPCA printed on the inside cover.

Anyone with information about the theft should call Suffolk police on 01473 613500.