A Bolton charity was delighted to have their minibus returned to them in perfect condition after it was stolen from the charity’s base back in October.

Bolton Community Transport and Furniture Services provides door-to-door transport for vulnerable people who are unable to get out and about on their own such as disabled and elderly individuals. The service which the charity provides has been described as a “lifeline” to those who depend on it.

Following the break in at the Bolton based charity’s head quarters, the minibus was stolen along with a Ford Transit van, and also a three sofas, cash, tool and several mobile phones all amounting to approximately £2,000.

It’s been reported that the thieves gained entry after breaking the lock on the compound gate. The police are still investigating the circumstances of the burglary and are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

The minibus, which is vital to the charity’s work, was found abandoned but still in good working condition in a residential area in Salford. The minibus was only recovered after a Salford resident called to complain that the vehicle had been parked outside his home for some time.

Despite the burglary and the theft of their vehicles, the Bolton based charity was determined to keep up their service, and so arranged to hire an alternative minibus from the local authority.

Although the Transit van is yet to be recovered, Bolton Community Transport and Furniture Services charity as delighted to be reunited with their minibus.