A Scots charity providing vital childcare for youngsters has been left heartbroken after their minibus was stolen and set on fire by mindless vandals.
The wreckage of the vehicle was discovered in Fauldhouse, West Lothian on Monday, April 12, after it was taken from outside Simpsons Primary School in Bathgate just days before.
Simply Play, who provide after school and holiday care for children, had previously appealed for help to recover the lifeline vehicle from their network of supporters in the local area.
But in a sad update on Friday morning, they shared a shocking picture of the wrecked bus which has been left as a burnt out shell.
They wrote: “Words can’t describe how heartbroken we are.
“This is what they’ve done to our children's minibus - totally stripped and burnt out it in the middle of nowhere.
“Our charity is having to fundraise for a replacement bus. Thank you for your support.”
Simply Play are hoping to raise £10,000 to replace the minibus while the theft continues to be investigated by police.
A force spokesperson said: “Police in West Lothian are investigating the theft of a vehicle from outside a school in Bathgate which was later found burnt out in Fauldhouse.
“The theft happened from outside the school on Leyland Road on Friday, 9 April, sometime after 5.30pm. The vehicle was then found burnt out on Monday evening, 12 April 2021, in Fauldhouse.
“Anyone who saw the vehicle between Friday, 9 April and Monday, 12 April, or has any information to assist police enquiries, should contact officers on 101 and quote incident number 1056 of 14 April.
"A report can be made to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
To donate to the fund, please click here.
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