BURGLARS who caused £1,000 of damage made off with just £15 worth of children’s money boxes and cash.

The thieves broke the lock on a garage door in Leon Drive, Vange, between 6.30am and 8pm on December 5.

They then smashed another door inside the garage in order to get into the house.

Thomas the Tank Engine and a Bob the Builder moneyboxes and £5 cash were taken, with a total value of £15.

Laura Anderson, spokeswoman for Basildon police, said: “The amount of damage caused for a little bit of cash is appalling.

“These thieves clearly have no heart to take items that probably belong to a young person.

“We would remind people to keep their lights on a timer switch in the darker months to deter would-be burglars.”

Anyone with information can call 0300 3334444