THIEVES have struck a blow against a local hospice by stealing a van and tools used for maintenance of facilities.

The theft happened when the van was parked at the home of an employee of St Luke's Hospice.

The van is used by the hospice's corporate services team to transport items between hospice locations, including PPE for hospice teams and other local health partners, and to carry tools to enable maintenance across the Hospice sites.

Hospice CEO Eileen Marshall says: "We are all very disappointed by the news. It's vital for our day-to-day operations and unfortunately it's doubly frustrating as the tools inside the van at the time were regularly used.

"Although it's insured we are now spending time with paperwork and having to make provisions to continue essential deliveries and maintenance. There's also the likelihood our policy premium will increase which is understandable, but again, very disappointing."

The hospice is appealing to local vehicle companies in Basildon and Thurrock to please contact Ms Marshall or Mark Crane if they feel they may be able to donate a van or replace any of the stolen tools. If you think your company could help, call 01268 524973.