ADULTS with special needs have been left devastated after the theft of costumes for a show in which they were to star.

Bags containing dozens of hand-made black, glittery waistcoats, dresses, feather boas and gloves were taken from the boot of support worker Jane Woodwards’ car.

The outfits were being used by her charity, Essex Cares.

It supports adults with special needs by organising a bi-annual theatre and music show for them.

The performers had planned to use the costumes in their next musical in July.

They were also set to wear the outfits on Friday at a special event at Colchester’s Wilson Marriage Community College. The event still went ahead.

Mrs Woodwards said: “I was so angry. I’m not so worried about the CD player and speakers that were also taken, but these costumes had been hand-made specially and really brightened our shows.

“It is a great shame this has happened. Everyone is very upset.’’ She added: “I appeal to whoever stole them or whoever may have them now, to hand them in.

”I’ve been looking through charity shops to see if the costumes have ended up there, but have had no luck so far.”

The clothes were taken from the silver Vauxhall Astra parked in Norbury Close, Marks Tey, between 7pm on February 10 and 6.50am the next day.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact them on 0300 3334444.

The clothes can be returned to St Botolph’s Church Hall, Queen Street; The Old Rectory in Brook Street Resource Centre or Colchester police station.