Thieves steal equipment from Minstead Trust in New Forest

Thieves targeted the Minstead Trust in what the organisation is describing as one of the worst moments in its 40-year history.

A truck, power tools and a ride-on mower were among the items taken from a maintenance building at Minstead Lodge, near Lyndhurst.

Now, the Trust has launched an appeal for donations to help it cover the cost of the break-in.

A truck used by the gardening team at Furzey Gardens was one of the items stolen (Image: Minstead Trust)

Chief executive Adam Dodd said: "Important day opportunities sessions were disrupted and maintenance of our grounds has had to stop. This directly impacts the daily lives of dozens of vulnerable people.

"More importantly, I know how unsettling this has been for staff, volunteers, and particularly some of the people we support.

"It's hard for us to comprehend why someone would steal crucial equipment that is used by people to build their skills and improve their lives.

"My thanks go to our maintenance team in particular for their strength and attitude throughout this really difficult few days.

"Minstead Trust has been supporting people with learning disabilities in the New Forest and beyond for almost 40 years, and this is one of the more unsettling moments we have faced.

"Our insurance will go some way to covering our substantial costs, but there will inevitably be a significant shortfall and further costs.

"If anyone feels moved to help us with a financial contribution to cover these unplanned costs, I would be hugely grateful."

Police are investigating the theft, which occurred at Minstead Lodge, near Lyndhurst, on October 2 (Image: Supplied)

Thieves struck on Wednesday, October 2 and made off with items including chainsaws, tools, chargers, and lawnmowers.

They also stole a truck used by the charity's maintenance team at nearby Furzey Gardens, a ten-acre site that is open to the public.

READ MORE: Grade II-listed Minstead Lodge in the New Forest named Best UK Wedding Venue

Liam, one of the people supported by the Trust, said: "They shouldn’t be stealing from local charities. When I heard about it I wasn’t happy, I was annoyed, frustrated, and angry.

"It’s stopped us from using our machinery and doing our jobs."

The Trust helps people with learning disabilities to learn new skills and become more independent, enabling them to lead happier and healthier lives.

A spokesperson said: "This seems to have been a reasonably professional job, which was well-informed and planned. The police are now involved and working with us to investigate this crime.

"We will be reviewing our security and talking to insurers to cover some of the cost of the items lost."

A police spokesperson said: "Entry was gained via the main door of a workshop and a large quantity of electrical tools were stolen.

"A separate container was also broken into but nothing else stolen.

"Among the items reported stolen were a STIHL leaf blower, STIHL hedge trimmer, STIHL chainsaw, STIHL lawnmower, STIHL brush cutters, John Deere X540 tractor/mower, Makita pole pruner, Honda lawnmower and a Husqvarna chainsaw.

"If anyone has any knowledge of the whereabouts of any of these items, please also call 101 and quote incident number 44240428764."

Donations can be made by visiting www.minsteadtrust.org.uk/donate