Melksham woman sentenced for taking £56,000 from theatre

A woman from Melksham has been sentenced for defrauding a Devizes theatre out of £56,000.

Carol Rendell, who was a volunteer treasurer at the Wharf Theatre, transferred £56,441.70 from the theatre’s account to her and her husband’s accounts between 18th May 2019 and 5th February 2024, police said.

She was sentenced at Salisbury Crown Court on Friday 30th January to two years in prison, suspended for two years, and must complete up to 12 days of a Rehabilitation Activity Requirement.

A statement from the theatre, read in court, said the theft had caused “a considerable financial blow” and left them unable to make repairs or improvements without seeking further funding.

“Every penny is now being carefully considered and, instead of enhancing the building, we are forced to rebuild our reserve funds to ensure our survival,” the statement said.

The statement added, “What is more upsetting is the personal impact. The personal impact on all of us within the theatre community has been profound. The Wharf Theatre is not just a place of work but a community run by volunteers. We share a common passion for the arts and for creating a welcoming environment for all who walk through our doors. This crime has shattered the trust we so carefully cultivated. For one of our own committee members, who was once a respected and beloved figure at the theatre, to have exploited that trust is deeply hurtful.”

Local Crime Investigation officer Shonna O’Harney said, “The Wharf Theatre is a valued asset to the community of east Wiltshire and relies on the generosity of the public to continue its work. The impact of Rendell’s actions has been felt deeply and widely. I would like to thank the volunteers for bringing this offence to us. We know it will take a long time for the community to recover.”

Members of the public with information about suspected offences are urged to call 101, or 999 in an emergency.