An ex-serviceman has told of his disgust after thieves stole two poppy appeal collection boxes in Milford Haven.

The Royal British Legion collection boxes in the Spar and Milford News stores on Charles Street were taken on Wednesday, November 22nd at about 1.30pm.

Police have issued descriptions of two men believed to have stolen the boxes, but so far no arrests have been made.

Lieutenant Colonel Doug Joyce, president of the Milford Haven branch of the Royal British Legion, said: “The money goes to help ex-servicemen and their families who have had difficult times.

“There’s thousands and thousands of people who gave their lives for the slimy b***** who stole those things.”

Carol Betty, of Milford News, said the criminals diverted her attention, asking for an ink refill for a pen.

When they left the shop she noticed the charity box had been taken and alerted police.

“Luckily enough we only had it the Thursday before and we did have a full collection box for the air ambulance which they missed,” she said.

“We’ve got a new poppy collection box which is chained down so we’re hoping to get more donations in now.”

The mayor of Milford Haven, Cllr John Roberts, said he was appalled by the theft.

“I’m disappointed with some of the people in our town for doing that because this is the time of year when we remember the fallen and Milford Haven is usually very good at honouring our ex-servicemen.

“For somebody to do this is beyond words really. Let’s hope the police get the people who did it.”

The thieves are both white men, and one is described as in his 20s with dark hair, clean shaven, around 5’8” tall with a local accent and wearing a white top.

The other man is around 25-years-old with dark hair, clean shaven and of medium build.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC379 Tanya Potter at Milford Haven police station on 0845 330 2000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.