Van and large haul of tools stolen in overnight raid on Minstead Lodge, home of the Minstead Trust charity

A NEW Forest charity which supports people with learning disabilities has made a plea for help after thieves stole vital equipment including a flat-bed van.

Raiders stole the vehicle and tools worth tens of thousands of pounds from Minstead Lodge, leaving its users “upset and unnerved”.

Run by the Minstead Trust, the lodge was targeted last Wednesday night by thieves who gained entry via the workshop’s main door.

A lodge spokesperson said they believe they were targeted by “professionals” who made off with chainsaws, chargers, a mower, a leaf blower and a Ford Transit crew cab used by its maintenance team.

Minstead Trust chief executive Adam Dodd said: “Minstead Trust has been supporting people with learning disabilities in the New Forest and beyond for almost 40 years, and this is one of the more unsettling moments we have faced.

“The immediate impact of this theft meant that important sessions were disrupted and maintenance of our grounds has had to stop. This directly impacts the daily lives of dozens of vulnerable people.

“More importantly, I know how unsettling this has been for staff, volunteers and particularly some of the people we support. Many of the people with learning disabilities we support find events like this hugely upsetting and unnerving.

“It is hard for us to comprehend why someone would steal crucial equipment that is used by people to build their skills and improve their lives.

“My thanks go to our maintenance team in particular for their strength and attitude throughout this really difficult few days. We will be reviewing our site security and thank the police for their help so far.”

He said insurance will go “some way” to covering the substantial costs, but there will be a “significant shortfall”.

“If anyone feels moved to help us with a financial contribution to cover these unplanned costs, I would be hugely grateful.

“Although these people have managed to take our possessions, they do not diminish our community spirit and all they achieve is to bring us even closer together.”

Describing his disappointment over the crime, service user Liam said: “It’s not very good. We’re a local charity, they shouldn’t be stealing from local charities. When I heard about it I wasn’t happy, I was annoyed, frustrated and angry. It’s stopped us from using our machinery and doing our jobs.”

Dave, who is also supported by Minstead Trust, said: “I was unhappy. I like to cut with the mower, do the edges. I’m disappointed it’s gone.”

A trust spokesperson added: “This seems to have been a reasonably professional job, which was well-informed and planned. The police are now involved and working with us to investigate this crime.”

Those with information about the crime should contact officers via hampshire.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting reference 44240428764.

Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously at crimestoppers-uk.org or on 0800 555 111.

Donate to Minstead Trust at minsteadtrust.org.uk/charity/donate-today