Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Food stall raided and vandalised
A BUSINESS owner lost a day’s trade after thieves caused “carnage” at his city centre food stand.
The iconic Auld Tram, which sits just off Commercial Street, was targeted by yobs yesterday morning.
Hoodlums smashed up the interior before making off with cash, a smart phone and an assortment of snacks.
Director Dane Elder contacted the police after arriving at the popular takeaway for city centre workers at around 5.30am.
He added: “It was carnage inside. The light was on when I took the cover back and initially I thought I’d left the light on until I saw inside.
“The till was damaged, the float was taken, which was about £80, along with an iPhone and chocolate and juice. Our till system is probably going to cost us around a grand to replace or fix. The window that was damaged will need to specially made.
“The police and forensics team are suggesting there may have been two people involved.”
Dane and his father, Dale, have operated the Auld Tram for seven years. They also run the successful Bridgeview Station restaurant on Riverside Drive.
Dane said yesterday was spent ensuring the Auld Tram could be back up and open for business today.
He added: “Due to the fact the till and the window were damaged we took a decision to shut yesterday.
“We spent the rest of the day getting a new till sorted to ensure we could be back up and running today.”
Yesterday’s incident comes after firebugs attempted to torch the tram – a converted and irreplaceable 19th Century horse-drawn car – last year.
Dane added: “Aside from these two incidents we’ve had little to no trouble during our time here.
“It’s obviously disappointing what has happened and we hope the police can catch those responsible.”
A Police Scotland spokesman said: “Officers received a report of a break-in to a premises on Commercial Street, Dundee.
“The incident is believed to have taken place between 4-5am on Thursday.
“Inquiries are ongoing.”