HUNDREDS of pounds have been raised for a community farm after it was targeted by burglars several times over the summer and autumn months - including one who stole a cockerel.

Able Hands Together, a therapeutic farm helping adults with learning disabilities, received more than £1,500 from the community to help them recover from the robberies.

The non-profit organisation, based at River Bourne Community Farm in Laverstock, took a hit after it was burgled several times in recent months.

Laura Tween, the founder of the company, created a fundraising page with a £500 target.

Within a week, they surpassed their goal, collecting £680 pounds.

They have also received money from Bishop Wordsworth’s School and Dawn Breakers, a gym in Andover, who raised £800 and £250 respectively to support the farm.

“They [Able Hands Together workers] couldn’t do what they do without funding, without the community helping,” said Angela Cawsey, PA for one of the co-workers. “It’s a non-profit organisation and it’s difficult unless you have community support.”

After two thefts, where energiser batteries, a heavy-duty wheelbarrow, a small bag of tools and other items were taken, thieves returned for a third time.

“The other thing that got stolen recently is one of the cockerels, who was really gorgeous looking,” said Angela. “Somebody also stole all the chicken feed.

“This happened after the second theft. That’s weird because they took a bin full of food, this has got to be someone who’s got chicken.”

With some of the money received, the farm bought an anti-theft box to improve security, but staff still need to remain vigilant of any other attempts.

“We have now to make sure everything is locked away. We still have no idea on who stole our stuff,” said Carl Anderson, a support worker at the farm.

According to Angela, the robberies psychologically affect the young workers: “It just breaks your heart to see these young adults being so fulfilled, so happy in an environment outside of home and then to see people stealing. It’s a nightmare.”

The company is still fundraising at facebook.com/ablehandstogether