Double whammy of floods and burglary put brakes on go-karting business

Just days after his Colne go-karting business was hit by floods, devastated owner Craig Gavagan has now had to face up to a break-in.
The aftermath of the burglaryThe aftermath of the burglary
The aftermath of the burglary

Prestige Karting, based at the Holker Business Centre in Burnley Road, suffered a devastating flood due to a burst water main which closed the popular business for several days – only to then be hit by a burglary resulting in the office being “turned upside down.”Devastated managing director Craig said: “It was bad enough suffering the flood, which wasn’t our fault, only to then discover we had been burgled.“The burglars had turned the office upside down. They completely ransacked it leaving drawers open and stuff all over the floor.“They also smashed several drinks and chocolate machines to pieces and took the money out.“A number of radios and mobile phones that were in the office were also taken. I am just absolutely gutted.”Mr Gavagan said the total cost of the damage caused by the flooding and the break-in was estimated at around £150,000 but added that United Utilities had carried out repair work from the flood.The business, which caters for children and adults alike and also has a laser battle arena, was closed for seven days, prompting Craig to appeal to Pendle Borough Council for help with his business rates.However, he has since to receive a reply from the council.He added: “We pay a lot in business rates and I just wanted the council to perhaps give some kind of discount for the time we were shut.“I employ people in the local economy and pay large business rates but don't seem to get any sort of service from the local authority.“I have emailed them twice but have not had a response. It’s very frustrating.Police crime scene officers arrived three days after the burglary to look for evidence.Anyone with information can call police on 101 or Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111.