OWNERS of a milkshake bar are reeling after thieves stole thousands of pounds worth of TVs and blenders, and almost shattered their World Cup dreams.

Husband and wife team Naomi and Rick Clucas, only opened Simply Scrumptious, in Station Road, Edgware, about three weeks ago, but have twice been targeted by burglars.

They now face a race against time to provide football coverage to customers after two 52-inch HD screens were stolen early on Tuesday morning.

Naomi said they had been planning to show all the World Cup matches live in the crèpe and smoothie parlour.

She said: “It was going to be quite a big thing and everyone was really looking forward to it.

“I was devastated and I didn't want to open, but my mum, my sister and friend came straight round and got me back on my feet.

“Everyone has been brilliant and really supportive. It just made me feel very low because we have only been open a few weeks and we thought we were really getting up and running.”

With the World Cup starting tomorrow, the couple are relying on the goodwill of friends and suppliers Musical Images to make the kick-off.

Naomi said she was confident of having replacement screens installed in time and that families would still come down to enjoy the atmosphere.

She added: “We want to show all the games live and we have planned special footie themed milkshakes and crépes.

“We really need people to come in now after all this. It's going to be much better than a pub because it is family friendly and there is no alcohol.”

Barnet police confirmed they were investigating the break-in which happened on June 8, between midnight and 6am.

The thieves smashed in the back door of the parlour, from Stream Lane, and stole three computers, which stored the CCTV footage, four blenders worth £800 each, and the TVs.

They also smashed a frame containing the first £5 the couple made after opening the diner, stole the cash and dumped the frame on the floor.

Police had been called to the premises once before after a handbag was stolen from the back office soon after it opened in early May.

Anyone who may have information on the break-in is asked to contact Barnet police on 0300 123 1212, or call Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555111.