A York shop owner has called for more support following a string of break-ins throughout the city.
Last month, YorkMix reported on a number of smash and grab raids in York.
The vandalism has continued with two Goodramgate businesses targeted over the last few weeks, Monk Bar Model shop and York Vintage & Antiques.
York Vintage & Antiques had their glass window smashed during the early hours of Saturday 26 October, with products worth over £700 stolen.
The thief helped themself to a large skull statue and a bronze dragon statue that came as a pair, as well as a few smaller items.
YorkMix spoke to the owner, Haydar Akboga, who feels frustrated at how the issue has been dealt with.
He recalls many times where drunk thieves have swiftly stolen from his shop, but nothing as major as this has even occurred.
Since the break-in, he feels as if he’s been left to deal with everything by himself.
“It doesn’t feel like the same would be done for a small business as it would with a big business, it’s not fair,” Haydar said.
He’s also frustrated by the fact that he had to spend around £2,000 of his own money to fix the damage the vandals left.
The glass replacement cost Haydar £1750, and the temporary wood to cover the smashed window £264.
Since the incident, Haydar claims he would have appreciated more communication with police and the City of York Council about what’s being done to prevent similar occurrences.
However, he’s grateful for the support he’s received from the community.
“The local people have been the best. They ask me if I need help, but them asking me is enough.
“I’ve been here nearly 10 years so I know many local people and I really like them.” Haydar revealed.
He has been updating his business Instagram page with updates since the incident, his latest post read, ‘What is going on in York? Who will protect small businesses?’
One comment replied stating, “this is so sad to see in such a beautiful city.”
Another from Mannions of York, “it’s been going on for ages, had our window smashed twice.”
Despite the completion of the clean up, Haydar still feels vulnerable as he works and manages his shop alone.
“I had to wait in the shop for 24 hours after the break in by myself, I didn’t go home. I don’t have cameras so I had to wait alone,” he told YorkMix.
We have requested a comment from North Yorkshire Police on the incident and will update the article when we have received one.