A GARAGE boss whose business was hit by one of the biggest fires in Rossendale in recent years has now been targeted by burglars.

Richard Cort is offering a cash reward after burglars stole £20,000 of new computers from his Waterfoot premises.

He said: "We are just getting back to normal after a major fire and now this has happened. "Neither fire not thieves will beat us. I am willing to put my money where my mouth is and offer a £250 reward for the arrest of the burglars."

The thieves cut through metal guards over the windows of temporary offices, climbed in and stole a fully computerised system linked with Rover.

Two computer systems and two telephones worth around £20,000 were stolen.

Mr Cort said: "They were only installed three weeks ago. We have lost some records but nothing that we cannot overcome. I am sorry for my staff who have worked really hard to get us back into business following the fire. The thieves will probably sell the equipment for a few pounds in a pub. It makes me really angry, I am fizzing.''

The fire in August was one of the biggest in Rossendale in recent years caused well over half a million pounds damage to the car showroom, service bays, body shop and parts department.

On Friday replacement premises were opened on the Beach industrial estate, off Todmorden Road, Bacup. The re-launch was attended by the Mayor, Coun Mollie Disley and firefighters who were first at the scene of the blaze.

Mr Cort said: "Obviously we don't have a lot of money to throw around in the circumstances but I hope the reward will help lead to the arrest of those responsible for the burglary."

"As well as stealing the property they made a bit of a mess of the place.''

Anyone with information is asked to contact Rossendale CID at Rawtenstall police station 01706 215242.

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