Community Shocked by Theft and Destruction of School Minibus
A close-knit community has been left feeling "absolutely devastated" following the theft and subsequent burning of a cherished school minibus.
St Joseph's R C Primary School in Tredegar, Blaenau Gwent, referred to the vehicle as a "lifeline" for the children, as it was regularly used for school trips and community events.
Head Teacher Reacts to Loss
John McMorrow, the head teacher, described the experience of seeing the burnt remains of the minibus as "quite emotional." The vehicle was found in the Merthyr Tydfil area a day after it was stolen on March 1.
The community has since come together to support the school by establishing a fundraiser aimed at replacing the minibus.
Authorities confirmed that investigations into the theft are ongoing.
Details of the Theft and Discovery
McMorrow, aged 57, expressed confusion over the motive behind stealing the 10-year-old minibus.
"We didn't think it would be of any value to anybody,"
He reported that the vehicle was taken at approximately 17:25 GMT on 1 March. Subsequently, he received "tip-offs" from parents indicating that the minibus had been abandoned on Bogey Road in Merthyr Tydfil.
"My secretary and I drove over there and by chance we found it," McMorrow said.
Although the bus was reduced to a burnt-out shell, part of the school's logo was still visible on the driver's door.
McMorrow shared that he felt "quite emotional" as it became clear the bus would not return to the school.
Security Footage and Witness Accounts
According to McMorrow, CCTV footage captured two hooded individuals using an angle grinder to cut through the front gate.
"A neighbour heard the noise and realised that's not right,"
"She phoned the police but within five minutes they were gone."
Impact on School Activities and Community Response
The minibus had facilitated pupils' participation in local sporting events, choir performances, and visits to nursing homes in recent years.
With the vehicle no longer available, these activities have been suspended, leaving students feeling "devastated."
McMorrow noted that parents were "understandably outraged" by the incident and have initiated a fundraiser to assist the school.
Collections have been organized in various locations, including pubs and factories.
"The outpouring of support has been quite touching really.
"This is when you find out what it means to be part of a valleys community."
Fundraiser Organized by Local Resident
Stephanie Bendel, a 35-year-old from Tredegar, established the fundraiser, expressing a strong connection to the school.
She mentioned that several family members, including her three children, have attended St Joseph's.
"We are trying to raise funds to get the children back on the road,"
Bendel highlighted that the crime affected not only the pupils but also the wider community.
"You just think, what was the point,"
Discussions are underway regarding security measures for any future replacement minibus, including options such as making the vehicle trackable and storing it in an external lock-up.
"You don't think these things are going to happen to a primary school.
"But we've had support from people from far and wide who have actually donated which is absolutely brilliant."
Police Statement and Ongoing Investigation
Gwent Police reported receiving a notification of a stolen minibus at approximately 17:30 GMT on 1 March.
"Enquiries were undertaken and the minibus was discovered, burnt out in the Merthyr Tydfil area, the following day,"
They confirmed that investigations into the theft remain ongoing.
