A scout group in Purley has launched a fundraiser after its minibus "was stolen and destroyed".

In late January 2024, 21st Purley (St Barnabas) Scouts’ minibus was reported to have been stolen from its headquarters at Baden-Powell HQ, St. Barnabus Church, Higher Drive.

Lucinda Taylor, a member of the organisation, claims that the minibus was later found by the police "burnt out and stripped of all its parts".

She explained that the bus was declared unsalvageable, and, despite being fully insured, the payout didn’t come close to covering a replacement.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said they can't locate this incident on their system and so can't give any information.

21st Purley Scouts has now launched a GoFundMe to raise £10,000 to replace the minibus and continue the trips for the children.

As of April 19, they have raised £1,950.

21st Purley (St. Barnabas) Scouts is an organisation that began in 1946 and is run by devoted adults who aim to give children and young people from all backgrounds, regardless of race or religion, the opportunity to experience a broad programme of activities.

21st Purley Scouts offers activities for Beavers (six to eight-year-olds), Cubs (eight to ten-year-olds), and Scouts (10 to 14-year-olds).

The original Scout minibus, which was regularly used for Scouting activities by the Cubs, Beavers, Scouts, and Explorers, was purchased through countless hours of fundraising, making the loss even sadder for the organisation.

The group remains positive and is beginning to raise funds to find a replacement for its children and young people.