Severn Hospice van off the road after Shrewsbury thieves break in
A Severn Hospice van which is used to collect vital donations is off the road after thieves tried to steal it.
The charity, which cares for families in Shropshire and Mid Wales living with an incurable illness, is down to just three vans after its white Ford Transit was badly damaged when thieves broke into it.
It happened sometimes between 7pm on Tuesday night and 6am the following morning at the Furniture Store in Ennerdale Road, Shrewsbury.
Manager Andy Perkins said it means the charity will be unable to pick up all of donations from its supporters.
"It was very upsetting for us to come in and see what has happened to our van," he said.
“We do so much for the community and when something like this happens it means we can’t carry on with that work.
“Thankfully we’re insured and they didn’t take the van, which would really have given us a problem.
“But they have caused a lot of expensive damage which will keep the van off the road, meaning we can’t collect donations from our supporters."
The dashboard of the van has been severely damaged as it is believed the thieves could have been searching for a tracker.
The steering wheel was also damaged while they were trying to get the lock off.
Mr Perkins added: “This is the second time we’ve been targeted after one of our vans was stolen in July last year.
Investigating
“We’re very grateful for everyone’s understanding and to the local police for investigating.”
The Furniture Store in Harlescott sells furniture, home and electric items and relies on donations from the public.
Severn Hospice usually runs three vans to collect the items and also offers a delivery service on furniture.
Anyone with information should contact West Mercia Police on 101 quoting the incident number 22/34081/19.
