A POLICE probe has been launched after Halstead's much-loved Empire Theatre was broken into and vandalised by yobs.

Officers were called to the scene at the popular venue in Butler Road in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Police say the incident caused "extensive damage", with part of the entrance now boarded up.

The cinema was due to screen Inside Out 2 but was forced to issue refunds after the break-in.

In a statement, the Empire condemned the actions as "mindless destruction".

Following the incident, a GoFundMe page has been set up, which has seen more than £2,000 raised in just days.

In a statement on social media, the Empire said it was "deeply humbled" by the support from the community.

It continued: "Our goal is to offer support, friendly conversation, and a cup of tea when it is most needed. For this, we sincerely thank you all for your generous donations, offers of assistance, and messages of support.

"Your kindness has been overwhelming, and many of us have been moved to tears by your generosity. You truly are the heart of the Empire Theatre."

The incident is thought to have happened on Friday night (25 October)Damage - The front of the theatre has been boarded up after the incident (Image: Halle Groves)

It continued: "I would also like to acknowledge the tireless efforts of our volunteers.

"This incident will not deter us, we remain committed to providing a welcoming space for the community to enjoy.

"We are always looking for volunteers at the Empire, and without them, the Empire could not function.

"Our special thanks to the volunteers who were on-site at 5am to deal with the incident is a testament to the commitment we have for this invaluable community entity."

Halstead Town Council, which owns the building, claims the intruder was in the building for "only a couple of minutes" and that they took nothing.

A spokesman said: "It is frustrating for the Empire Theatre Trust, and the town council, that they are going to have to increase the security at the building.

"It is likely that roller shutters will be installed.”

Essex Police officers, who were called to the scene shortly after 5am on Saturday morning, are looking into the incident, and asked for any witnesses, or anyone with information or footage which could assist the investigation, to get in touch.

Any reports made should cite crime reference 42/162764/24.

To donate to the GoFundMe, visit the website and search Empire Theatre, Halstead.