Small business dealt big blow

New Line Car Wash was targeted by thieves last Thursday night. Tools with sentimental value were stolen along with cash that was in an office.

The business has been running for two years and is owned by Clifford Ruddell.

His wife Jemma said: “They must have used a jack to lift the shutters. The guy from the shutter company told us it takes some force to lift those shutters.

“They got them up a tiny bit then someone small must have crawled in underneath and got the stuff out.

“They took tools belonging to Clifford’s father and got away with some cash from a box in the office.

“They got a washer out, but someone must have disturbed them because they just left it. Or maybe they were in a car and could only get so much in.”

Jemma added: “The insurance should cover it. We’re lucky they didn’t get any of the washers or they’d have bankrupt us.”

Police in Lurgan confirmed they are investigating a burglary at commercial premises in the New Line area.

It’s understood the premises were entered some time between 7.30pm on Thursday, July 26, and 9am on Friday, July 27.

Police have appealed to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the immediate vicinity during this time or anyone who has information about the incident to contact them at Lurgan on 0845 600 800 or alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.