A REDNAL charity hit by thieves said it has been 'overwhelmed' by people's generosity after receiving donations of cash and equipment totalling more than £2,000.

The Advertiser reported last week that heartless robbers had stole thousands of pounds' worth of fishing and other sporting equipment from brain injury charity Headway, based in Chapel Rise.

The theft left the organisation, whose centres are temporarily closed and already struggling financially due to the coronavirus pandemic, fearing for its future.

But it has now been buoyed by an award of £1,500 from Rubery councillor Peter McDonald's divisional funds as well as other donations, both financial and material.

Sue Tyler, chief executive officer at Headway Birmingham & Solihull, said: “We have been overwhelmed with people’s generosity since the theft.”

Headway launched a SOS - Save Our Sports - online appeal at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/saveoursports to help it replace the stolen angling items, archery equipment and other kit after the May 4 theft.

That appeal has yielded £400 in addition to the council grant, which has left the charity optimistic it will be able to continue its sports programme for its brain-injured clients when lockdown restrictions allow.

In addition, The Angling Trust, who helped Headway purchase the fishing gear in the first place, circulated details of the theft throughout the wider fishing communities.

That has led to the charity being contacted by many people offering to donate their spare equipment.

Alvechurch Fisheries, the venue used by Headway for its fishing sessions in recent years, has also offered its support.

Sue added: “The response so far has been amazing and will go a long way in helping us resume our fishing sessions and other sporting activities once we can do so safely.”

Headway's clients need specially adapted equipment due to their disabilities, so the money raised will help purchase this alongside the many donated items.

Cllr McDonald added: “After reading about Headway being broken into and the lost equipment and damage caused, I was only too pleased to have been able to donate £1,500 from my Councillors Divisional Funds to go some way towards replacing the lost equipment.

"Headway is the only organisation in the area that provides a rehabilitation service for those suffering from brain injuries.

"Its service includes access to leisure - bowling, pottery, gym, swimming, daily living skills training and much more.

"It ensures that there can be life after brain injury. Hopefully the donation will ensure it carries on its valuable work.”

Headway says it is looking to re-open its brain injury centres at the earliest opportunity, but will continue providing welfare calls, doorstep visits and online information and sessions to ensure the health and wellbeing of its clients in the meantime.