Latics minibus stolen while players train

Date published: 03 November 2009

OLDHAM Athletic’s £23,000 youth team minibus was stolen while the players were training yesterday.

Thieves broke into dressing rooms as the players were put through their paces at Chapel Road, Hollinwood, at 11.15am.

They found keys to the 17-seat vehicle and drove off in it.

Players were left stranded as police sent out their helicopter in the hunt for the bus.

Latics chiefs have appealed for fans to be on the lookout for the bus, which is clearly branded with Latics logos.

The Renault, registration MH04 KOU, was purchased by supporters’ group Trust Oldham five years ago to help with the club’s youth system.

Latics chief executive Alan Hardy said: “Three youths were spotted on the pitch earlier on and told to get off.

“They are thought to have broken in, smashed in the dressing room door and found the keys to the minibus before driving off in it.

Disappointing

“Police have had the force helicopter up trying to spot it on the roads but we’ve had nothing as yet.

“We’re appealing that if any of our fans see it parked up to call the police.

“It causes us a lot of inconvenience and hassle for transporting the youth team around.

“The squad is aged 16 to 18 so players don’t have their own transport. The minibus is used to take them to and from the training ground and to away matches.

“It’s disappointing that people are resorting to this kind of act. They don’t do anything for the community or the club.

“The sooner the culprits are found and dealt with by the authorities, the better.”

The thieves also stole a pair of shoes.

Anyone with information should call 0161-872 5050, quoting crime number 768021109.