A MINIBUS belonging to a community scout group has been stolen from a locked compound in an act described as a “slap in the face”.
The vehicle belonging to the 1st Poulner Scout Group in Ringwood was stolen at some point between Sunday evening and Monday morning.
Thieves broke through a locked gate and into a compound next to the scout hut before stealing the white minibus – which has the scout group logo printed on the side.
Scout leader Clive Bower said: “It’s such a slap in the face to our hardworking scout leaders, who give so much time and energy into developing our beavers, cubs, Scouts and explorers, when something like this happens.
“Having been targeted before, leaders and parents raised funds to provide a secure compound for our minibuses which are also used in the Ringwood community – nothing is safe from these thieves.”
Clive also asked anyone with information as to the whereabouts of the minibus to contact them and police.
A Hampshire Police spokesperson said: “At some time between 6pm on January 30 and 7am on January 31, a minibus was stolen from a locked compound at the scout headquarters in Southampton Road, Ringwood.
“The vehicle is described as a 17-seater Ford Transit Minibus.
“Anyone with information should call Hampshire Constabulary on 101 quoting 44220043277.”
The scout group’s other minibus has been moved to a new location.
This incident follows the discovery of a stolen school minibus which had been set on fire at Shepherd’s Gutter car park near Bramshaw.
Police added there is nothing to suggest the two incidents are linked.
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