Bus which helps disabled children get to school targeted in suspected early hours arson attack

A transport boss is working to keep his business on the road after a suspected arson attack on a bus used to take special needs children to and from school.

By Fiona Thompson

Published 9th Apr 2021, 18:11 BST

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Ian Donnelly, who has run I & R Executive Travel for 13 years, was woken by a call from police at 1.15am today, Friday, April 9, telling him the mini-bus was alight.

Ian had parked it in Walpole Avenue, Westlea, Seaham, and the garage next to it was also damaged by the blaze.

Durham Constabulary said it received reports of the bus fire, as well as a car alight in nearby Doreen Avenue, at around 12.15am today, April 9.

Photos of Ian Donnelly's bus following the suspected arson attack in Walpole Avenue, Westlea, Seaham.

Photos of Ian Donnelly's bus following the suspected arson attack in Walpole Avenue, Westlea, Seaham.

The police helicopter was deployed and a 40-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of arson and possessing a controlled drug with intent to supply and remains in custody as inquires continue.

Ian, 47, used the 16-seater vehicle, which could take two wheelchairs, on school runs, with his work continuing through lockdown as he helped key workers children to attend lessons.

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He has shared his upset as he urged anyone with information to speak to police, adding: “I hope they throw the book at them.”

Ian said he had been overwhelmed by the support shown by the Seaham community following the incident.

"Everybody loves us, because all we do is help people,” he added.

"Just all the love we’ve had after this, all the comments I’ve seen on Seaham Have Your Say, it means a lot.

"Whoever has done this has caused a hell of a catastrophe because it’s caught the doors of the garage as well, but it was lucky, it could have been worse and no one was hurt.”

The bus, one of a fleet of vehicles but pared down due to Covid, was also used to take older people on days out an to venues including the Hetton Centre for dinner dances.

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service confirmed it attended a car blaze in Doreen Avenue and an investigation is underway.

Anyone with information which could help police can call 101 or Crimsetoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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