VANDALS who damaged community buses in Ilminster should meet their victims, says an employee of a residential care home in the town.

Last week the News reported how five buses used for the Ilminster Community Transport scheme were attacked by vandals and thieves who smashed lights and removed parts from the vehicles.

Randi Jeeps, management committee secretary at Vaughan Lee House, has spoken out condemning their actions.

“At Vaughan Lee House the buses bring people in for personal care, a meal and activities and to see the district nurses for medical services here. In many cases this is the only time they are out of their house for the week.

“We are one residential care home that has been affected by this criminal act. It has affected at least 16 people.

“The day centre at Barrington had to close twice this week because of transport so this has affected 20 or 30 people from there.

“As for the vandals who have damaged our community buses, I think once caught they need to apologise to their victims, which may take a while as I suspect over 300 people may have been affected.

“Perhaps they would be so humbled and horrified at what they have done they would not re-offend.

“I think we are slightly guilty of taking [the bus service] for granted. There are amazing people doing amazing things out there and they far outnumber the individuals who cause damage and chaos.”

Ilminster police have again appealed for witnesses to the attack, which took place in the car park at Gooch and Housego between Friday, October 23, and Monday, October 26. Anyone with information should contact police on 0845-4567000.