A BRIDGWATER school is appealing for help after their mini bus was stolen during a school trip.

Haygrove School in Durleigh Road organised a trip with students and teachers earlier this week but was left devastated after the mini bus was stolen during the course of their trip.

The school confirmed the students and staff had "all got home safely" despite the incident but said the school's insurance settlement is 'significantly less' than they had hoped for and will not cover the cost of a new mini bus, which would cost £24,000.

In a letter to parents the school's deputy headteacher, Aaron Reid, appealed to parents for ideas on how to raise funds to replace the mini bus and said the school will 'endeavour to ensure this situation does not impact on the extra-curriculum activities available to... students."

The letter said:"I am writing to inform you that one of the school’s minibuses was recently stolen.

"Regrettably, the police have had no leads in finding it and therefore it is very unlikely that it will be returned to the school.

"The school’s insurance company have offered a settlement figure of approximately a quarter of what the minibus was purchased for just a few years ago.

"Unfortunately, the school does not have the funds to cover the depreciation loss and the cost of a new vehicle is estimated to be in the region of £24,000.

"Therefore, we are looking to parents and the wider community for ideas on how we could potentially fundraise or secure sponsorship for a new vehicle.

"We will endeavour to ensure this situation does not impact on the extra-curriculum activities available to our students, however our minibuses are a vital tool in delivering parts of this programme.

"Therefore, please be aware that there may be some changes until we can source a permanent replacement.

"If you have any ideas regarding fundraising or securing sponsorship, we would be delighted to hear from you."

The Bridgwater Mercury has contacted Avon and Somerset Police for comment.

Anyone with fundraising ideas or sponsorship are advised to call 01278 455531 or email GWilliams2@educ.somerset.gov.uk.