North Hampshire school minibuses stolen over Easter
The buses were discovered burnt out in a field near Basingstoke
Last updated 3rd Apr 2024
Two minibuses have been stolen from separate schools over the Easter weekend and found burnt out in a field near Basingstoke.
In the first incident, a minibus was stolen from Whitewater CE Primary School in Hook between 9am on Sunday, 31 March, and 2pm on Monday 1 April.
In a separate incident a minibus was taken from Great Binfields Primary School in Chineham sometime between 6pm on Sunday 31 March, and midday on Monday 1 April.
Both vehicles were found burned out in a field at Bramley near Basingstoke - Police have cordoned off the site to carry out an investigation.
Both schools have launched appeals to raise money towards replacing the vehicles and say they are 'heartbroken' and 'devastated'.
Dumped
A spokesperson for Whitewater CE primary school said:
"Our incredible PTA worked tirelessly to raise enough funds to provide a much needed minibus to the school back in 2023.
"This important asset was very sadly stolen over the Easter weekend and seemingly dumped and set on fire.
"As a small school in a village setting, the minibus provides wider opportunities for all our children.
"Whilst it was insured we know that we won't receive enough to cover all the costs plus source and replace this invaluable tool and that's where we hope you can help."
Burned out
A spokesperson for the friends of Great Binfields Primary School said:
"Unfortunately our school minibus was stolen and it was found with the engine removed and burned out.
"We're now looking to see if we can raise some vital funds to help it. If you're in a position to help, no matter how big or small please donate."
A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said:
"We received a report that a minibus was stolen from the Great Binfields Primary School site. Police were told that the incident occurred some time between 6pm on 31 March and 12pm on 1 April. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 44240136952.
"A minibus was also reported stolen from the grounds of Whitewater CE Primary School some time between 9am on 31 March and 2pm on 1 April. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting 44240137104. "