Break-In at The Endurance Hub Leaves Local Business Counting the Cost
A Littleborough cycling business has appealed for information after thieves broke into its premises during the early hours of Thursday morning, stealing bikes and causing significant damage.
The Endurance Hub reported that the break-in took place at around 5am. The business is currently compiling a list of stolen bicycles and has urged anyone offered bikes for sale in the coming days to check their origin carefully.
In a statement shared on social media, the shop asked anyone who was in the area around the time of the incident and may have witnessed suspicious activity to come forward.
While several bikes were stolen, owners say the theft is only part of the damage caused. The break-in left a smashed window, damaged shop fittings and a number of bicycles knocked over and damaged as the offenders forced their way into and out of the building.
The business said the incident has also resulted in costs associated with emergency repairs, insurance claims and disruption to day-to-day operations.
The Endurance Hub is owned by Paul, Neil and Darren, who described the break-in as a major setback for a business that has spent years working to establish itself locally.
According to the owners, the three have invested significant amounts of their own time and money into keeping the shop running. They said the business had recently begun showing signs of financial progress following a move to larger premises just over a year ago.
"We aren’t wealthy business owners who can simply absorb thousands of pounds of theft and damage.
We’re three people trying to keep a local bike shop alive, provide employment, look after our customers and build something positive for our community."
In their statement, the owners highlighted the wider impact that crime has on independent businesses, pointing out that stolen goods and property damage affect local employers, staff and the communities they serve.
They also expressed concern about the pressures already facing small businesses, warning that incidents such as this make it even harder for independent retailers to survive.
Anyone with information about the break-in, or who may have been in the area around The Endurance Hub at approximately 5am on Thursday morning, is encouraged to contact the shop.
