THE St Clare van was back in service on Monday – more than a month after it was driven away from the Hospice site by thieves.

Drivers Paul and Martin were delighted to get the keys back so they can resume our delivery and collection service helping to generate vital income through the Hospice’s seven shops.

However, we can now reveal that the cost to the Hospice of the van being off the road for the past four weeks totals more than £1,600.

St Clare retail sales manager Fiona Eaton said: “Thankfully the van was recovered by the police within 12 hours of it being stolen and we are hopeful that the culprits will be caught, however the cost to us of the vehicle being off the road has mounted up.

“Although we were able to hire a replacement vehicle while the van was being repaired, unfortunately the rental was not covered by our insurance so that alone has cost £900. We also had goods in the back which were rifled through and have had to be written off so that’s an additional £350 in lost stock. When you add on £250 to have new keys cut and a £150 excess fee, we are facing quite a hefty bill.”

Fiona added: “We were devastated that thieves would target the Hospice and they clearly have no idea of the consequences of their actions and the bill we are now facing; all funds which could be spent on caring for our patients and their loved ones.”

Anyone with information about the theft of the Hospice van on February 25 should call Essex Police on the non-emergency number, 101.