School minibuses stolen in Todmorden could be in Rochdale borough

Photo: West Yorkshire Police

Police received reports that two school minibuses had been taken from Ferney Lee Road, Todmorden

Two school minibuses stolen in Todmorden could be in the Rochdale borough after thieves made off towards Rochdale on Thursday (19 May).

West Yorkshire Police have released CCTV images after two school buses were taken from Ferney Lee Road, Todmorden. 

The incident happened between 6pm and 7pm, when suspects gained entry to the grounds by cutting through the gates. 

Once inside, the suspects took two minibuses parked on the grounds and made off in the Rochdale/Manchester direction. 

Both minibuses are silver, with the school logo on and the registration plates are EA17 ZDX and EJ17 EVH. 

Officers are conducting several lines of enquiry and it is believed the theft is linked to the recent series of minibus thefts in Calderdale. 

It is believed the minibuses that have been stolen previously are also being taken over the border into Rochdale.

Inspector Ben Doughty of Calderdale Valleys Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We are aware that these further thefts will be unsettling to the community and I want to reassure residents and other minibus owners that we are doing what we can to find those responsible. 

“We are working closely with Greater Manchester Police, who are assisting with our enquiries. 

“We are appeal for anyone who may have further CCTV or dashcam footage, of the minibuses stolen yesterday in the Todmorden or wider areas to come forward and report it. 

“The minibuses are distinctive with the logo of the school and might have been seen out of school hours and likely to have travelled directly to the Rochdale area.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact police via the 101LiveChat function on the website here, quoting crime reference number 13220270797."