VOLUNTARY organisers have spoken out after stupid rotters' stole parts from two community buses and caused over £3,000 damage.

The theft left almost 70 aged and disabled people disappointed after bus services were cancelled.

A volunteer driver raised the alarm last Wednesday morning after he discovered thieves had stolen the bonnet, bumpers, grill and lights from two community buses.

Epping Forest Comm-unity Transport co-ordinator Angela Canham said: "They can't have any heart at all. I hope they never need the support of a disabled vehicle."

This is the second time in a month that thieves have targeted the voluntary bus service and taken bodywork. Mrs Canham says its insurance company recommend they pay for the repairs which, she contends, they can ill afford.

She said: "We've tried to do this after last month but we will need help this time round. We're not in a position to pay for the repairs - we haven't the finances."

The buses are expected to be out of action for over a week and will disrupt the lives of hundreds passengers reliant on the service.

Loughton Voluntary Care duty officer Elsie Roff, who organises weekly shopping trips for the infirm, said: "These buses offer freedom for the elderly who otherwise would be stuck inside. The buses give them back their lives. These stupid rotters deserve the birch as they've ruined it for everybody." Police are investigating the incident.

Mrs Canham said: "Our staff have called all the passengers affected and they can't believe we've been attacked again.

The police think it's the same people who struck weeks ago. "Somebody must know something about who did this."

- Epping Forest Community Transport is appealing for money and a secure area to park their minibuses.

If you can help, ring Mrs Canham on 01992 564409.