Fury as teens steal charity’s minibus then cause chaos on the streets

A GROUP of louts went on a “wrecking spree” after stealing a charity’s minibus.

The perpetrators, reportedly teenagers, targeted the Grey Lodge Settlement on South George Street, Dundee, on Thursday.

A thief snuck into the premises of what is one of the area’s oldest charities, during a children’s Irish dance class and was challenged by staff.

But they were unaware that he had stolen the minibus keys.

After making off with the vehicle when staff had left, the culprit and their accomplices drove on to nearby William Street before smashing into a number of cars.

Alan Duncan, manager of Grey Lodge, said that due to the Covid19 restrictions doors have had to stay open to follow current guidelines.

He added: “I’m so angry about what has happened. That minibus has been put to such good use during lockdown.

“It has a lift and ramp so we’ve been able to do food drop-offs to the over 50s and convey people to and from hospital.

“It’s been so appreciated and that’s what’s angering me more.

“Our staff have worked their socks off this year to help people and this is the thanks we get from certain members of society .”

The wheel axle of the bus has been damaged, as well as cars in the surrounding area, and Alan fears the vehicle may have to be written off.

“If the minibus is a writeoff we’ll need to start thinking about a replacement bus which is money we don’t want to be spending,” he added.

“I’ve apologised to the neighbours, I feel partly responsible for the damage caused to their cars.

“We know neighbours are on our side – some residents have children who attend the youth group.

“If there was one positive to come out of this it was that the community did support us.”

William Street residents said five vehicles had been damaged at the scene.

One neighbour gave chase in an attempt to catch the perpetrators

Another local said a Mazda car was given a shunt when the minibus struck it, before the occupants fled the scene.

He added: “Our family has lived here for 30 years and we’ve never had any sort of trouble like this.

“The road is quite tight. I’m amazed that more cars weren’t damaged. The white Mazda was propelled forward.