Play Valley Sheffield: Owners close business and contact police after 'finders keepers' message over lost bracelet

Staff have been disciplined and apologies sent to the family involved, bosses said.

And they would look at improving employment practices after an issue was raised on social media around DBS checking of staff - although they insisted the business complied with ‘all legal requirements’ - and 'close for a time'.

A row blew up after a girl lost her bracelet at Play Valley indoor play centre on Coleford Road in Darnall.

Their parent returned to ask staff if it had been found and said that two hours later they received a private message with evidence of comments about the missing jewellery which had been made on a staff group chat.

One read ‘finders keepers’ and another said: “We deffo pawning it. Will pay for night out for us all.”

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A third message appeared to falsely insinuate the mother’s partner was a drug dealer, stating: “Her boyfriend literally had 2 old Nokia phones on table. Clearly knew what job he’s got. I’m sure he can replace it.”

In a message on Facebook, ‘Simon and Sarah’ - believed to be directors Simon Jesson and Sarah Wilkinson - wrote: “We are deeply saddened and disappointed regarding a staff incident that has unfolded over the past couple of days on social media. We sincerely apologise to the family involved for the distress and upset caused to them.

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“As a result of this incident we have taken immediate disciplinary action to deal with those involved. An investigation is taking place and the matter has been reported to South Yorkshire police.”

It went on to describe the impact on the them and the business saying it had been ‘torn apart’.

“For many years we have worked hard to grow a business that we love dearly. To see our hard work, time spent and sacrifices we make as a whole family be torn apart overnight is truly devastating."

“We are proud of Play Valley for being a fun, clean and safe environment for families. However, will now close for a period of time to make the necessary changes and improvements, rebuilding our team with employees who can support our vision."