A SCHOOL in Haughton Green has been left devastated after a minibus bought in memory of a teacher was stolen.
St John Fisher RC Primary School said the bus was stolen from the staff car park during the summer holidays.
It was named after the school’s former deputy head teacher Charlotte Conlon, who died in May 2016 at the age of 32 from cancer.
To help replace what it calls Charlotte’s bus, the Manor Road establishment has launched a fundraising campaign.
Head teacher Mandy Harris said: “She was a big motor racing fan and, during her time at our school, she always wanted our school to have our own minibus so the children could make lasting memories on school trips.
“When she passed away, her parents donated a minibus to our school in her memory. Since 2016, Charlotte’s bus has been instrumental in ensuring our children are able to go swimming, sports events, school trips and work within the community.
“It has also provided us with a constant reminder of this most special teacher. Unfortunately, during the summer break, our school gates were forced open and Charlotte’s bus was stolen!
“Needless to say, as a school community, we were devastated – not just because we have lost our minibus but also the sentimental loss because it was Charlotte’s bus.”
The school has launched a GoFundMe page in the hope of raising £15,000 towards buying a new minibus.
Donations can be made by visiting https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-us-replace-charlottes-bus