"DISGRACEFUL" thieves stole hundreds of pounds worth of furniture and ornaments from a retired housing complex.

Residents living at Fairhouse Court, in Long Riding, Basildon, woke up yesterday morning to discover a table and chairs and garden decorations had been snatched from the communal area.

It means they have been unable to sit outside the enjoy the sunshine.

One resident, who did not want to be named, said: "To the scumbags who came onto a sheltered housing site for senior citizens and stole the table and chairs, bird bath and white concrete boots from the communal garden, I hope you never have a moment's peace."

Andrew Buxton, Labour councillor for Basildon's St Martin's ward, said the thieves' behaviour was "disgraceful".

He said: "This is very much a low life crime to go to an OAP complex and steal from these retired people, who have worked hard all their lives.

"To target these elderly people is just awful.

"This sheltered housing complex is in such a nice little area and it's tucked away. A lot of the residents take care of their gardens, it's their pride and joy and they enjoy the communal garden.

"I think bringing ornaments inside is going too far, they shouldn't have to do that. It's a sad world that we live in."

"I have heard of other gardens being targeted and other ornaments stolen in Basildon so I wonder if it's a spate.

"It's disgraceful."

The sheltered housing complex, managed by Basildon Council, is made up of 31 flats for retired people.

Police have confirmed that they are investigating the theft and are appealing for witnesses.

No arrests have been made.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "Police received reports garden ornaments and furniture had been stolen from an address in Long Riding, Basildon, sometime between 11.30pm on Sunday, May 8 and 6am on Monday, May 9.

"The items were worth a three figure sum in total.

"Witnesses who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area at the time are asked to call Essex Police on 101."

A Basildon Council spokesman said: “The council has reported this matter to the police and it is currently being investigated by them.”

Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555111.