Seaham residents raise money for helpful chip shop manager who was burgled while working

Residents have pulled together to support kind-hearted Seaham Chippy manager Michelle Gray, who had cash and medication stolen from her purse while she was at work on Tuesday evening (March 2).

The burglary came just weeks after the business set up a scheme which is providing free hot meals to those who are struggling for food.

Cheryl Rogerson, who works alongside Michelle and delivers the free meals, started the fundraiser on Wednesday (March 3). Cheryl said: “I knew that was the last of the money that she had. With her helping everybody else out, it was just nice to give her something back.

"She didn’t really want us to start the fundraiser at first, because she obviously likes helping others.

"She asks no questions or anything, she just gives the free meals out. I just thought it was nice for the community to give her something back.

Cheryl continued: "There’s been plenty of times when Michelle goes to ASDA and fills the trolley for people in need, who are really struggling. She’s not just giving free meals out, she actually does free hampers as well.

"On the night of the burglary, a parcel I delivered had six bags of food with nappies, and baby wipes and baby milk.”

It is understood a man entered the rear of the shop and took the cash and medication. Michelle has said the money was for charity and for her daughter’s birthday and has described the incident as a “kick in the teeth”.

Cheryl added: “It was actually horrendous, it’s awful. How can anybody even run into the fish shop and take her money when she’s helped so many people, is beyond me. “

Durham Constabulary have described the suspect as wearing a black coat, trainers, jogger bottoms and a baseball cap. Enquires are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to call 101 with incident reference number 402 of March 2.

The fundraiser for Michelle can be accessed here.