ALMOST on the eve of Orsett Show, thieves have struck a major blow to its organisers who are now rallying round to try and make good damage and loss caused by thieves.

The show, which takes place tomorrow (Saturday, 2 September) has to replace stolen cable that was taken from the showground off Rectory Road, overnight between Wednesday (30 August) and Thursday.

The cable was laid out ready for installation but lengths of it, valued at approximately £3,500, were stolen. 

Show secretary Georgina Clark says: "Although we had security (with a dog) on duty the thieves struck. We do think they were disturbed when they realised he was doing his round (some cable was left in between the ground and the fence they were throwing it over).

"We believe this happened between the hours of 10pm on Wednesday and 7am on Thursday. The theft was discovered at 8am. Police have been informed.

"Obviously this is a real blow to the show - and an expensive one that we didn't need but we will rally round and the show will go on!"