A HAIRDRESSING salon in Penarth has praised the response of the community after thousands of pounds worth of items were stolen in a burglary.

Blu Hair Design which is based in the Washington Buildings on Stanwell Road, was targeted by thieves overnight last Friday into Saturday with an estimated £15,000 worth of stock stolen.

The intruders completely cleared out the retail shelves including expensive shampoos, irons, three iPads and a tin containing £300 in cash.

They believe that the downstairs door which leads up to the salon may have been left open and the main door to Blu Hair Design itself had been kicked in.

One of the salon staff noticed the items had gone straight away and the staff believe that the thieves knew what they were doing and what they wanted because they left other expensive items.

But with neighbouring business offering to help, messages of support on social media and the efforts of the team, they managed to pull through.

Claire Price, one of the salon co-ordinators, said: "We felt downhearted. We were devastated.

"We want to thank everyone who helped us. Willmore's next door asked around and Jodie Tanner from Queen B and The Hair Business asked if we need anything.

"The messages of support we've had have been uplifting. There has been a really nice community spirit."

Artistic director, Alexis Williams said she felt very humbled by those who had helped the salon out following the break in.

Despite the initial disruption, the team did not have to cancel a single client thanks to the help of their neighbours and were able to carry out business as usual.

Ms Price added: "We are hurt but not broken. The team really pulled together."

Ms Price added that although the thieves took so many items 'they could not take our skills."

Police confirmed the incident was reported to them at 8.15am on January.

They confirmed hair care products were stolen from the store and that the thieves gained entry by smashing the front glass window.

Anybody with information should contact police immediately via 101 quoting reference *006563.

Alternatively they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

No arrests have been yet been made.