A school trip to France could be cancelled after thieves drove off with a minibus.

Youngsters at Wouldham All Saints Primary School, in Worrall Drive, are due to go on the trip in just four weeks time, but it may not be able to go ahead.

Watch the moment thieves make off with a minibus

Head teacher Carl Fitter has published CCTV of the incident on YouTube in the hope someone recognises the three people involved.

He said: "It was around 9.30pm yesterday, three men broke in and took it out of the car park by removing a fence panel.

"There is about 20 minutes of casual chat and stroll across the car park first, I don't think they knew about the CCTV.

"They peeled the panel back in the corner of the car park and just drove it out, it was quite busy out on the road so they didn't get noticed.

"We are supposed to be taking 30 children to France in four weeks. We have to get it sorted in time."

Staff regularly use the bus to transport pupils to forest school in Cobham twice a week, swimming lessons in Strood and Snodland twice a week and to the library, as well as school trips.

Mr Fitter added: "We have an old battered one which we could use for the trip, but it doesn't tow the trailer very well, so that is a problem.

"The minibus cost around £15,000 to replace. We want to make sure the children are not missing out but I can't guarantee there won't be a problem and the trip will go ahead."

The other option the school is exploring is hiring a coach for the trip, but this could cost up to an extra £100 per pupil.

"There doesn't appear to be any guilt or thought for anyone else by the men. It's very disappointing," Mr Fitter said.

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help raise money for another bus. If you would like to donate click here.

Police confirmed they were called yesterday morning to reports a minibus had been stolen overnight.

Witnesses or anyone with information is urged to call the appeal line on 01622 604100 quoting reference 03-0210.

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