Watch CCTV below showing Carl Mason swiping the Poppy Appeal charity tin from the counter of Santander in Blackburn
AdvertisementA Preston man who stole cash donated to help war veterans has been jailed for 52 weeks.
Carl Anthony Mason from Creswell Avenue, Ingol, stole Poppy Appeal tins in the run up to Armistice Day from branches of Santander and Boots in Blackburn.
He was caught after members of the public recognised him in CCTV footage released by Lancashire Police.
Blackburn town centre Sergeant Dave Clarke said: “Mason committed an appalling and despicable crime.
“He took advantage of the goodwill of the local community and stole money which was intended to support men and women who have fought or served for their country.”