An appeal for funds has been launched to replace a stolen minibus used by multiple charity groups.  

The minibus aided people with learning and physical disabilities from various Hertfordshire charity groups; Passport 2 Leisure, Purple All Stars, Daylight Club and Special Olympics. 

The dark blue Peugeot Boxer, with a registered number plate WA68 BDZ, was reportedly stolen on Wednesday, January 11, from a car park in London Colney. 

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Hertfordshire Constabulary is still investigating the whereabouts of the bus, which was last seen parked in the car park at around 4.30pm on Tuesday, January 10. 

Kate Harding, the creative practitioner with Hertfordshire County Council who also runs the Purple All Stars group, said: "There is still no news about our stolen minibus, and we are coming to terms with the impact this is having to the groups of people with Learning Disabilities that used it." 

The Purple All-Stars use performing arts to deliver health and inclusion messages across Hertfordshire.  

They have had to make alternative transport arrangements for their up-and-coming performances.  

Passport to Leisure, another group that use the bus, have had to change and adapt their schedule of activities leaving many of their service users missing out. The Comet: The Purple All Star group during one of their dance performances.The Purple All Star group during one of their dance performances. (Image: Purple All Stars)

Kate added: "The impact this is having on these people’s lives is huge and could have a serious detrimental effect to their physical and mental wellbeing." 

While on a more positive note, Kate said: "The support we have received from the general public has been amazing and we are so grateful to them for sharing our Facebook posts. 

"We have been fortunate to receive a generous offer from a minibus firm called Howard Ray Transport, who have said they will lend us a minibus whilst ours is being found or the insurance process is completed. 

"Our next problem is finding somewhere safe to park our loaned bus and eventually our own bus in St Albans.  

"We really don’t want this to happen again." 

A fundraising page has recently been launched since Kate realised that the "insurance may not cover the cost of a new bus". 

To help the charity groups raise funds for a replacement bus, go to: https://tinyurl.com/2s3dtxr2