The Forfar community has been thanked for its help in preserving the magic of Christmas for local youngsters after callous thieves raided their toy fund.
Thieves stole a four-figure sum from Chimes Playgroup’s festive fundraising pot in November.
The money, raised by a sponsored walk by playgroup children, was for new equipment, toys and a party.
The cash and a camera were taken from the East and Old Parish Church hall in Chapel Street, where the playgroup meets.
The Rev Barbara Ann Sweetin said the theft was “sickening” and a “horrible, horrible violation”.
But a massive community effort led to gifts, cash and equipment being donated from a host of local businesses.
The children were given gifts at visit by Santa to the playgroup, which has been run by Sandra Meikle for 15 years.
The staff said: “We would like to thank parents and carers, both past and present, the East and Old Church, local businesses, local councillors and members of the public both locally and in the surrounding areas who generously donated funds as well as resourced after the recent theft of fundraising money.
“We have been so overwhelmed by your support which ensured that Santa was able to visit the children at the Christmas party.”
Sandra said the playgroup is a charity and all of the money that they make is used to support its work with its pre-schoolers.
The playgroup is based at the community hall within the grounds of the church and offers places for children aged two-and-a-half to school age.
A crowdfunding page has raised £315 for the group, and East and Old Parish Church also donated a cheque for £200.
Asda Forfar, through the Asda Foundation, donated the toys the group had been saving to buy, as well as some games and selection boxes.
Community champion Andrea Logan said: “The group is an important addition to the Forfar community and we couldn’t let all its fundraising efforts go to waste.”
Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101.