Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Anger after volunteers’ vital minibus stolen and stripped for parts
THIEVES who wrecked a minibus used to supply food and support to hundreds of vulnerable Fife families have been described as “the lowest of the low”.
The vehicle was stolen from outside the Balmaise Community Centre on Linnwood Drive, Leven, at some point between Christmas and New Year and dumped just over a mile away in the Burnmill area of town.
The minibus, which was used to deliver meals and other items to hundreds of local families, had been stripped of its engine and gear box.
Volunteers have hired a replacement to minimise disruption to services, but the crime has infuriated residents who believe people with local knowledge must be responsible.
A new bus is estimated at about £23,000 while hiring a replacement for the next two months will cost at least £500 a week.
Labour councillor Colin Davidson, who has helped co-ordinate the community’s response to
Covid-19, urged anyone with information to contact the police.
“This has had a major impact on our ability over the past week to help families in difficulty,” he said. “It really was the lowest of the low.
“The authorities think it was probably someone with local knowledge as the Broom and Burnmill are not on major routes and heavy garage equipment would need to be used.”
Mr Davidson said the response from individuals and businesses to Covid19 in general has been incredible.
Stuart’s of Buckhaven, for example, provided several tonnes of food in the last year.
Since the minibus incident Mr Davidson said he and others had been inundated with offers of support, ranging from fundraising to more practical help.
Police are investigating and anyone who has information should contact 101.
Alternatively, people can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.