Bosses at a charity for adults with learning difficulties are today still reeling after thieves stole fuel from two of their minibuses.

The thieves broke into the grounds of Genesis Orwell Mencap in Wright Road, Ipswich, between 5pm on December 21 and 8.30am on December 22.

The thieves, who gained entry by cutting through a fence, cut the fuel pipes of the vans, which are used to transport clients, and emptied the tanks.

There was thought to be more than �100 worth of fuel in the vans.

The charity helps adults with learning difficulties through a number of initiatives including day-time support services, social enterprises and a social club.

Suzanne Brindley, director of support services at the charity, said: “We were very shocked.

“I was there in the morning and when we realised it was empty we thought, first of all, that there had been a fault and then we found the pipes had been cut.

“We were amazed that anyone would do that.

“It’s obviously transporting people with severe learning difficulties.”

Ms Brindley slammed the actions of the thieves and claimed that their actions could be putting the lives of other motorists in danger.

In a message for the thieves, she said: “I don’t know what you were stealing it for but you’ve potentially risked the lives of vulnerable people.

“If it ran out on a journey and it is hit from behind then you are endangering the lives of people whose lives are difficult enough.”

Police are now investigating the crime and are calling on residents who were in the area at the time, or if they have any information, to come forward.

A spokeswoman for Suffolk police said: “To target vehicles used by a charity at this time of year is heartless and completely selfish.

“We would ask anyone with information about the incident or those responsible to call Pc Green at Suffolk police on 101.”

Have you been a victim of crime this Christmas? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or you can send an e-mail to us at eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk