Tristar Homes appeals for return of stolen bridge

Tristar Homes is appealing to the public to help secure the return of a bridge that its staff had designed and built for children with a disability after it was stolen by thieves.

As part of its policy to support the local community, the social housing landlord had constructed the bridge for the High Flyers Early Support Nursery which caters for pre-school children with complex and additional needs in Tedder Avenue, Thornaby.

The bridge was being stored in sections at Tristar’s depot in Orde Wingate Way, Stockton, in readiness for installation at the centre, which is used by local families including children with disabilities.

Police in Stockton are also appealing for information or any witnesses to come forward to assist them in their investigation. Officers believe that the theft took place between 6.30pm and 7.30pm on Monday 17 October after two men wearing hooded tops were seen entering the compound. Due to the size of the wooden bridge, which was 2.5 metres long and a metre wide with a metre high hand rail, officers are investigating the possibility that a vehicle may have been used.

Tony Barratt, commercial manager of Tristar Homes, said: “Those responsible are probably unaware that they have stolen something that was going to such a worthy community cause.

“We are not sure if they are even aware of what they have stolen, if they have taken it for fire wood or to use the timber to build something else.

“Our depot is in a street just off a busy main road and we would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious to get in touch with the police.

“Our staff, who put a great deal of time and effort in to designing and constructing the bridge, are upset about the theft and the fact that it will affect local children.

Councillor Bob Gibson, who approached Tristar about helping enhance the outside environment at the centre, commented: “The bridge was going to add an extra dimension to the outside amenities which are used by children with a disability including those who use a wheelchair.

“I could hardly believe it when I heard it had been stolen. I hope this appeal will help aid its recovery so it can be installed in its rightful place at the centre.”

The bridge was to be an attractive outside feature as well as helping improve the children’s mobility skills.

Anyone with any information or who witnessed anything is asked to contact PC Jay Murfitt on 01642 302126 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.