"Devastation as heartless thief wrecks ‘lifeline’ school vehicle.

We are appealing for information after a vehicle used as a “lifeline” for a vulnerable 12-year-old boy was wrecked in a break-in.

A hooded figure was twice caught on CCTV cameras breaking into the grounds of the Mackenzie Thorpe Centre, in South Bank, Middlesbrough, before stripping parts from a Ford Tourneo van.

The vehicle, which had the bonnet, parts of the engine, and tyres stolen, is primarily used for the safe transportation of a young learner, who needs high levels of support.

Engineers estimate that the vehicle will either have to be written off or cost around £15,000 to repair."

I am beyond disgusted. Mackenzie Thorpe Centre has helped and supported our family in all ways possible, they accepted Caleb when he was expelled from a different special needs school because of his extreme challenging behaviour, offering a more 'bespoke' community school environment and this bus is his life line in accessing those type of activities, it is his safe space!

This charity is more than just an area of learning it is Caleb's access to the community through support and acceptance. They are his friends, his support mechanism and his ability to see the world through all the difficulties he already struggles with.

The staff deserve a break they are my child's guardian angels, they shouldn't have to worry about finding funds to help Caleb access school in September!

I understand Summers are hard financially but I have set up a go fund me page in order to help. Even if it is for one months hire of a vehicle so that they don't have to struggle to find the funds

Thank you from our family to yours.

Sarah, Danny & Caleb