CHILDREN were left stranded after thieves stole a minibus last Friday.

The Teesdale youngsters had been transported to Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre as part of an organised activity by the charity, TCR Hub, in Barnard Castle.

The 17-seater bus, registration number NV58 CWZ, was parked on one of the streets near the centre and locked while the volunteer driver left the bus to get some refreshments, at about 10am.

However, when they returned, the bus had vanished.

Hub manager, Rachel Tweddle, said those at the charity were "devastated" by the theft, especially as it had left the children stranded in Newton Aycliffe.

She said the charity was "resilient" but would have to work hard to replace the asset.

  • Anyone with information should call the police on 101.