Lincs: Van theft sparks charity appeal

The theft of the 3.5 tonne blue Renault Master van was reported to Lincs Police in the early hours of Thursday 12th February.

The loss of the van, which was used to collect and deliver items to the Nomad Trust charity shop in Sincil Street, Lincoln, is a massive blow to the organisation.

Chief Executive of Lincolnshire YMCA, Malcolm Barham, said: “It’s a great shame that we have been compromised in such a dreadful way.”

“Clearly this setback is going to have a great impact on the operation of the charity shop which contributes to our fundraising efforts and the support that we provide to members of our local community.”

The furniture and electronics units at the charity’s warehouse, where the keys to the van were kept, were raided.

The van, which features a white Nomad Trust logo and large white text, was driven through the metal shutters, causing hundreds of pounds’ worth of damage as a result.

Malcolm added: “Because of recent cuts to our funding it will be a struggle for us to replace the van and repair the damage to warehouse shutter.”

“We need the support of the public to help us find our van, and to consider supporting us with donations to get us back on our feet.”

The Nomad Trust charity shop provides good quality and affordable clothing and home items and furniture to public.

It also provides access to free clothing, bedding and kitchen packs to its service users when they move into their accommodation.

Lincs Police have launched an investigation and are trying to track down the stolen vehicle.

If you have any information in relation to the stolen van please call the police on 101 quoting incident number 53 of 12th February 2015.

Donations can be made via the Lincolnshire YMCA and Nomad Trust JustGiving page or dropped off at the charity shop in Sincil Street.