Children's charity minibus stolen and torched

A children's charity based in Romsey say they're 'so upset' after their minibus was stolen, set alight and dumped in the New Forest.

It happened overnight.

Police are investigating.

The vehicle belonged to Youth Options, a Hampshire charity that provides support and activities to children and young people, particularly for those who need additional support.

Madeleine Durie, Chief Executive Officer of Youth Options said: "We are so upset that someone would do this, and particularly to a charity minibus.

"It had our logo and charity details on, so whoever stole it would have been completely aware they were stealing from a children and young people’s charity.

"We had fundraised to buy the minibus and it was used daily to transport children to our youth centre in Andover, and to take children to outings during the school holidays.

"Only last week, we had used the minibus to enable children from Andover to our outdoor learning centre in Eastleigh where they got to build dens, cook on campfires.

"They had such a great time, they didn’t want to leave. Without the use of the minibus, we wouldn’t have been able to give them those opportunities.”

The charity is appealing to anyone who may have seen or know something to come forward to help police with their investigations.

Youth Options has launched a snap fundraiser to help pay for the costs of replacement and cover the additional costs for temporary transport.

If you are able to help you can do so by clicking here.