A HOSPICE is reeling from the “disgusting” theft of one of its van which transports patients with terminal illnesses.

The van was stolen from St Luke’s Hospice and bosses say it will cause a “significant strain” on their work.

A spokesman for the hospice in Fobbing Farm, Nethermayne, said: “We’re very disappointed to share that last week, we sadly experienced the theft of one of our hospice vans.

“This van was part of a small but essential fleet of vehicles, which includes donated vehicles.

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“The purpose of the fleet is to transport patients and maintenance teams across hospice sites; and to support the vital function of corporate services in ensuring a safe environment for all our patients, staff and visitors.

“The theft puts a significant strain on the use of the other vehicles and members of our team as well as our finances.

“We are working hard to secure a replacement van as soon as possible and encourage anyone who feels they, or their company, may be able to help with a new vehicle to please call the hospice.

“We are very grateful for the outpouring of support from our wonderful community.”

The hospice has been providing care for decades.

In 1990 the building works for the hospice were completed, the first day hospice patient arrived in the June and in the November Princess Diana visited the hospice, Andrew Baggott, leader of Basildon Council, said it must be heartbreaking for the charity and its staff.

He said: “It’s disgusting some people would do something like this, especially to a charity which does so much for people.

“You don’t expect it and the people who did this will not have any conscience or humanity at all.

“Anyone who knows anything must come forward and report it. The hospice does such massive work for people in need.

“When times are tough for everyone it will put even more constraint on the hospice.”

Anyone with information can also call Essex Police on 101 or the hospice on 01268 524973

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