A minibus stolen from a charity in Northfleet has this morning been found, but not in the condition hoped for.

The Alzheimer's and Dementia Support Services say its minibus was taken overnight on Wednesday from the Safeharbour Memory Wellbeing Centre in Coldharbour Road.

Today, the charity say the bus was found in ruins not far from where it was taken.

The bus is usually used to provide transport for people living with dementia to attend The Beacon Day Support service.

Due to Covid-19, this service was suspended and the bus was instead used to help local hospitals discharge medically fit patients into the charity's care at home service.

A fundraising campaign was started to replace the bus and has a target of £42,000.

Alzheimer's and Dementia Support Services said: "I am sure you will recognise we are already facing a significant financial impact due to the coronavirus pandemic and this will only add to the pressure on our organisation.

"We are very saddened that someone would do this, especially at a time like this where the minibus had been used to alleviate pressure on the NHS and contribute to the national effort against Covid-19.

"We urgently need to replace this specially adapted minibus so that vulnerable people living with dementia can access The Beacon day support."

Kent Fire and Rescue Service has been approached.

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