CHARITY workers who were devastated by the theft of their specially-adapted tractor and trailer are "amazed" by the level of support they have received in the aftermath.

The tractor and trailer, used to take elderly residents of nursing homes, youngsters with disabilities and others with mobility problems around Moors Valley Country Park, was targeted by thieves last week.

While the trailer was recovered shortly afterwards, it had been vandalised badly enough to make it unusable.

The tractor has not been recovered

At that time, Wimborne-based charity East Dorset Heritage Trust was forced to make the heartbreaking decision to cancel all of their planned trips for the summer.

However, bosses at Dorset Council have not offered to loan the charity a replacement tractor until they can secure a new one.

Heritage trust manager Sarah Evans has also confirmed that several local companies have come forward to offer their help in getting the adapted trailer back to roadworthy condition.

She said: "There has also been such a massive demand to help on social media that a Justgiving crowdfunding page will be launched in the next few days to help the public show their support and the trust hope to have the tractor and trailer up and running again as quickly as they can, so as few people as possible miss out on their countryside experience."

An investigation into the theft has been launched by Dorset Police.

Dorset Council community and open spaces manager Matthew Reeks said: "We were very disappointed to hear of this criminal act.

"One of the joys of Moors Valley Country Park is the ability to get close to nature and the scheme the heritage trust provides is very much valued.

"We have pledged to provide one of our tractors to allow the rides around the park to continue.”

The project was started at the park, near Ashley Heath, more than 20 years ago, and hundreds of people from all backgrounds have benefitted over the years.

Speaking to the Echo last week, Mrs Evans said: "This project which is funded by donations and run by volunteers makes such a big difference to the lives of those who use it."

The theft was initially reported to police at 11.54am last Thursday.