VOLUNTEERS at an Abergavenny hospital radio station are devastated after £1,500 worth of equipment was stolen.

The break-in at the studios of Nevill Hall Sound, which has been broadcasting to patients of Nevill Hall Hospital and the wider community for 35 years, has forced its regular presenters off air after a laptop and two computer towers, used to broadcast the shows on air and stream on the internet, were stolen last weekend.

The station relies on unpaid volunteers, who do live shows throughout the week, donations, advertising and sponsors.

Station Manager, Pamela Parry, said it is a blow to the charity and its 20 volunteers.

She said: “It’s terrible and sad for the listeners, which includes patients at Nevill Hall Hospital.”

“We remain on air using our 24-hour automated system since but have had to abandon our presented shows until we can replace the equipment. We have vowed to carry on and hope to have our presenters back on air sooner rather than later.”

Presenter and trainer, Alan Leech said among the items stolen were a Samsung Laptop and two Intel tower computers. He added: "It’s so sad for our listeners, some of whom listen via the internet from Canada, Australia and South Africa.”

One of our presenters reported the break in on Saturday morning. Entry was forced through a door and the CCTV camera also stolen.

He said: “We already pay £4,000 a year for a licence to broadcast and try to keep some cash in the bank but this could flatten us.”

“We are determined to continue and appeal for support in doing so.

Police said entry was forced in the break-in, which took place between 9pm on January 17 and 9.25am on January 18. A CCTV camera was also stolen.

Entry was forced.

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log 150 18/01/14.

To support the charity can do so via www.nhsound.co.uk