Man jailed after setting charity shop on fire

A man who carried out a burglary at a charity shop in Derbyshire before setting it on fire has been handed a six-year prison sentence.

The first floor of The Children's Society store in Ripley, suffered major damage in the blaze on 2 December, meaning the shop had to stop trading for the first time in 40 years.

Michael Gibson, 49, pleaded guilty to three charges, including burglary and arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered, in January and was sentenced at Derby Crown Court on Tuesday.

Antony Richards, the charity's retail regional manager, said the fire had been "absolutely devastating."

Emergency services were called to the Oxford Street branch at 02:00 BST on 2 December.

The glass door to the shop was smashed, donated goods covered the floor and the walls were coated in soot.

"The items in there are less than £3. Not only does the community rely on us, but the charity too," Richards said.

No-one was injured in the fire but there was significant damage to the interior and stock.

The Children's Society works with young people who have suffered years of abuse, who have run away from home or are struggling with mental health issues.

Volunteers from the charity opened a pop-up shop in the former Co-operative building in the town on 15 December before moving back to the renovated shop on 14 April.

Derbyshire Police said officers found Gibson with four lighters and some bracelets that had been stolen from the shop. A money tin and a charity hamper had also been taken.

While in custody, Gibson used a racial slur when an officer restrained him, the force added, as well as giving a 'no comment' interview when questioned about the incident.

He also admitted causing racially or religiously aggravated harassment, alarm or distress by words, writing or behaviour and was also ordered to pay a £228 victim surcharge.

Temp Det Con Jess Knight, who led the investigation, said: "This was a case that deeply upset the community in Ripley as a lot of people in the area rely on the shop to help provide for their children over the Christmas period."

The Oxford Street store's reopening by charity shop influencer Lola Amuah followed four months of renovation work.

Daniel Parkin, the shop manager, said the response to the fire from the community had been incredible.

"We want to thank everyone who has reached out, as well as our staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to support the shop and raise vital funds for children who need us."

Speaking at the relaunch event, Amuah said: "The community in Ripley is amazing and they've all come together to make this happen.

"You can see all the old customers that have not been here since December. It's packed. It's lovely to see everyone come together."

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