Community centre's Meals on Wheels van targeted in break-in

The team at Greenhills Community Centre in Wheatley Hill discovered the vehicle had been targeted over the weekend and shared a post on Facebook earlier today, Monday, December 14, expressing anger the much-needed van had been attacked.

The damage has been reported to Durham Constabulary, which is investigating.

Since the initial message was shared, the centre has sent its thanks to those who have offered to help out following the break-in, with its volunteers to ensure the meals service continues by using their own cars.

The first post from the centre said: “Thank you to the very kind individuals who thought that it was a good idea to smash up our Meals on Wheels van over the weekend.

"This has been reported to the police but any info would be greatly appreciated.

"As you know many of the elderly in our local community depend on us for their daily hot meals - thanks to our brilliant volunteers using their own cars the service will continue.

“Lovely early Christmas present - NOT.”

A spokesperson for the police said: “Police were called shortly after 8.30am this morning to reports of criminal damage to a Vauxhall combo van.

“The incident occurred at Wheatley Hill community centre, where the van was being kept.

“The suspect is believed to have smashed the driver’s window with a large rock however nothing is believed to have been taken.

“Inquires are currently ongoing.”

Anyone with information which could help police can contact Durham Constabulary on 101.

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