Thieves broke into a handmade wishing well at a Hethersett, Norfolk, Christmas display overnight between Dec. 8 and Dec. 9, stealing cash meant for Finnbar’s Force. The display—created by Tristan Cork in memory of his son Finnbar, who died of a brain tumour in 2016—raises funds for therapy and family support and has raised more than $40,000 in five years. Norfolk police have appealed for witnesses and doorbell-camera footage, while local residents and tradespeople have offered repairs and to replace donations, and Cork says much of the money has probably been recovered.
Community Outraged After Thieves Steal Donations From Father’s Christmas Wishing Well Honoring Son
Newsquest / SWNSTristan Cork next to wishing well set up in son's honor
A handmade wishing well used to collect donations for Finnbar’s Force was broken into and ransacked overnight in Hethersett, Norfolk, leaving a father and his community shocked.
Tristan Cork, who created the annual Christmas display in memory of his son Finnbar, said thieves struck between 7:00 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 8, and about 7:30 a.m. the following morning. The cash box was forced open and the well—built and decorated by Cork and volunteers—was badly damaged.
Tristan Cork / SWNSTristan Cork and Finnbar Cork
A Memorial That Raises Funds For Families
Finnbar’s Force, named for Cork’s son who died of a brain tumour in 2016, supports children with cancer and their families by funding play therapy, specialist treatment support and counselling for parents and siblings. According to the Eastern Daily Press, the Park Green display has brought in more than $40,000 in donations over the last five years.
“It’s to remember Finnbar, but also for the community,” Cork told the BBC. “That money on a daily basis raises enough money for children to have therapy, play therapy, support for parents and siblings.”
The display, which has been enjoyed by local children since it was first installed in 2017, requires time and expense to create each year—materials, lights and volunteer labour begin in October for a November switch-on. Cork described the theft as “really disheartening” and said it is costly to replace what was lost.
Norfolk Constabulary / SWNSThe wishing well
Police Appeal And Community Response
Norfolk Constabulary has appealed for witnesses and asked anyone with doorbell-camera footage to come forward as officers investigate the break-in. The force issued a public statement seeking information to identify those responsible and recover the stolen funds.
The community rallied quickly: several local welders have offered to repair the well, and residents have pledged donations to replace the stolen cash. Cork told the BBC that much of what was taken has likely been returned thanks to the local response, and he is being encouraged to continue the annual display.
If you have information or footage that could help, contact Norfolk Constabulary quoting the relevant appeal number.
