VANDALS who wrecked a charity's ambulance have robbed ill and disabled people in York of weeks of vital trips and social events - and now their annual holiday.

In early May, yobs forced open the rear door of the Hospital and Community Disabled Support group's ambulance while it was parked in Tanner's yard, off Huntington Road, York, and ripped down two roof windows, causing £3,500 worth of damage.

Scores of people collected from hospital and about a dozen residential homes across York by the 16-seater ambulance to go on day trips, supermarket runs or to the monthly social event have missed out while the vehicle was repaired.

Last Friday the ambulance, paid for by a £50,000 lottery grant and £50,000 raised over six years through fund-raising events held by volunteers, was back on the road after its repairs - only to be attacked again three days later.

"The driver went to collect it and caught three lads red-handed. He gave chase, but couldn't catch them," said group chairman Bernard Bell, who is a former Lord Mayor of York, Sheriff of York and city councillor.

"They've forced a side door open and messed about with two fire extinguishers. I was devastated when I found out because we're doing all sorts of things to raise money.

What's upset me the most is that it's the second time it's happened. Members decided to cancel the annual trip. We were going to go to Tresnant in Wales for the 16th year running, but we've had to cancel because of lack of funds. This vandalism has really knocked us back."

The attack means that 16 people will miss out on the holiday to Wales.

Audrey Goddard, who has been group secretary since it formed in 1986, said: "I'm very annoyed. I wished they could teach the children round about to respect older people and the disabled. They never know if they're going to become disabled and if they're going to benefit from our service.

"I feel very disappointed on behalf of the clients who are going to miss out on their holiday, because they look forward to going away. It gives both them and their carers a break."

The charity is looking for a new place for the ambulance to be housed. Anyone who would like to become a volunteer driver or become involved with the group can phone Mrs Goddard on 01904 781172.

Updated: 08:17 Friday, June 18, 2004