Romsey Old Cadets discovered their instruments had been taken from a garage in North Baddersley

Jessica Pattison of Romsey set up the fundraiser after Romsey Old Cadets discovered their instruments had been taken from a garage in North Baddersley where they were stored.

They were discovered missing on Tuesday, August 7, after which a ‘GoFundMe’ online campaign was set up in an effort to raise the cash needed to replace the equipment.

Mike Smith, a Romsey Old Cadets member, said: “It’s great the local people want to help and support us. The band don’t have anything to do with the page being set up, it was all the public.”

The Romsey Old Cadets are a carnival show comprising past members of the Army Cadet Force.

They take part in carnivals and displays including Remembrance Parade and St George’s Day.

They had used the garage to store their instruments for 25 years but when over-grown ivy was removed from the storage unit walls it damaged the roof, leaving the instruments vulnerable.

The stolen items included bugles, clarinets, cymbals and trumpets, both old and new. The age range of the gear made it difficult for the band to estimate their value, Mr Smith said.

The fundraiser wants to hit £3,500 to contribute towards the replacements.

Mr Smith said: “We’re lucky really.

“Most of us keep our instruments at home so we are still able to play.

“But we are currently recruiting and the instruments were for new members who might not have their own.

“New members will not be able to practise and we cannot recruit until we have instruments for them to use.

“The theft affects the future and growth of our band.”

A police spokesman said: “The burglary took place between 10am on August 4 and 10am on August 7. Enquiries are on-going.”

Anyone with information or who witnessed the theft is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 44180299849.