Henlow community rallies round to show Alisha that kindness always triumphs

A determined Henlow girl has been overwhelmed by the kindness of her community after they stepped in to help when her honesty box was stolen.
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Caring Alisha Halford, seven, started a toy sale outside her house on Saturday afternoon to raise money for the NHS because she was inspired by Colonel Tom Moore.

However, only one hour after she opened for business, a woman, accompanied by a man on a bike, took the honesty box and the £10 it had inside.

Alisha’s father, Steve, said: “I would like to say a huge thank you to the community in Henlow village for being so tremendously kind in helping to repair her view of people. It’s shown the kindness of strangers.

Alisha: with her dog Cooper (left) and with her toy sale (right).Alisha: with her dog Cooper (left) and with her toy sale (right).
Alisha: with her dog Cooper (left) and with her toy sale (right).

“I put a post on Facebook about what happened and within minutes people were dropping off little cards and notes - we’ve so far raised £300. The kindness and faith in humanity far outweighs one theft. It has strengthened Alisha’s resolve.”

Steve’s Facebook post had contained a picture from the family’s CCTV to help track the woman, but he told the newspaper that Bedfordshire Police has now identified her.

The theft occurred while Alisha had taken a break to go for a walk, and Steve had taken his eye off the ball for a second whilst speaking on the phone.

Alisha wrote a message to Chronicle. She said: “I thought that what Captain Tom did was really kind and good. I had lots of toys and bikes and I wanted to do a toy sale to help. The naughty lady took the NHS charity money and we found her on CCTV then lots of people helped and donated lots of money - so far £300! I am so excited about it. I want to say thank you to every one of the people that has helped to raise more money; they really are amazing.

“Can I say hello to all my friends, family and teachers and tell them that I love them and miss them? Thank you, Alisha (and Cooper) xxx.”

Alisha is now carrying on with the toy sale. Social distancing measures will be adhered to and the toys have all been cleaned.

The family says a special thank you to the headteacher and teachers at Raynsford Academy for their notes and donations.

To donate money or toys, please send an email to [email protected]