A SPECIALLY adapted tractor and trailer, used to take elderly residents of nursing homes, youngsters with disabilities and others with mobility problems around a country park, has been stolen by heartless thieves.

The theft at Moors Valley has resulted in East Dorset Heritage Trust having to make the heartbreaking decision to cancel all of their planned trips for the entire summer.

While the adapted trailer has been since recovered, albeit heavily vandalised, the tractor cannot be found.

Police have launched an investigation, and heritage trust manager Sarah Evans has appealed for information or anyone that can help get the service running again.

She said: "We are truly devastated. This project which is funded by donations and run by volunteers, makes such a difference to the lives of those who use it.

"We are now left having to disappoint the very people that benefit from this wonderful activity, it is just heartbreaking."

The initiative was started at the park more than 20 years ago, and hundreds of people from all backgrounds have benefited over the years.

The trust would like to get the scheme up and running again, and any help would be greatly received.

If you can help contact 01202 888992.

Meanwhile, Dorset Police confirmed they have launched an investigation into the incident.

Anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 101, quoting the crime occurrence number 55190093222.