The grand opening of a new scout hall has been delayed after thieves broke in and stole tools worth £25,000.

Overnight on August 8, intruders forced their way through a window and cut through a padlock on the rear gate of the new hall in Hollybush Hill, Snaresbrook, and High Street, Wanstead.

Taps and other equipment set to be fitted at the hall were also stolen.

After the damage was discovered early the next day, police were called and are still appealing for witnesses to the burglary.

Work to demolish the building started in April this year and the hall was set to open on August 31.

The completion of the £300,000 project has now been delayed until September 18 when a official opening is being planned.

Next week an underfloor heating system is being installed and the site is nearly finished.

Paul Plane, chairman of Epping Forest South District Scout Council, said: “Sadly, the break-in has caused us some delay, but Woodford Interiors are working hard to complete the build in time for the official opening.

“£25,000 worth of tools belonging to Woodford Interiors and their workmen were stolen.

“Many of the tools were the personal property of the workmen.

“Most, if not all, of the personal tools had no insurance due to the high premiums required and the workmen have suffered a significant financial loss which affects their livelihood.

“We are appealing to people in Wanstead and Woodford for any information that they may have regarding the break-in.

“Perhaps you in the area between 3.10pm on Saturday August 8 and 7.45am on Sunday August 9 when the crime was discovered

“The quantity stolen meant that a van had to be used to remove them from the site, therefore there must have been considerable noise during the burglary."

If you have any information or witnessed the break-in, contact Ilford Police Station on 020 8345 2650 using Crime Reference Number 4414530/15.