Famous Sheffield sweet shop issues CCTV appeal after 'scumbag' thief strikes

Granelli’s on Broad Street is one of the oldest sweet shops in the country, having been been satisfying the city’s sugar cravings for 147 years.

Its owner Julian Hunt is determined to help police catch the thief who struck this week, stealing lead from above the shop’s shutters, before he targets other businesses.

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He has shared CCTV footage of the theft, which happened on Wednesday, March 17, at 9.20pm, showing a man dressed entirely in black, except for blue gloves, pulling the lead to the ground.

The thief is seen walking off before returning in a Vauxhall Astra Convertible or Vauxhall Tigra, believed to have had false plates, putting the lead in the boot and driving off.

Mr Hunt said: “This is another blow just when we least needed it, given the impact the lockdown has had on our business and so many others.

"It’s shocking that this scumbag would take advantage of shops being closed like this but police said that burglaries from businesses are up by 60 to 70 per cent during lockdown.

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"Is it too much to ask them to show some respect for the people who are trying to make a living and provide for everyone once lockdown is lifted?

“If anyone recognises the person pictured or has any information please get in touch because I don’t want any other businesses to have to put up with this.”

Anyone with information is asked to call South Yorkshire Police on 101.