A family has been left angered after a specially-adapted van for their autistic son was stolen from under their noses.

Paul Mackley, who lives in Snodland, spent months gradually fitting out the Transit van with carpet, seats, flashing lights and other stimulants for Connor.

The 46-year-old sold their more expensive car as travelling with the six-year-old was becoming increasingly difficult.

Connor, who attends Snodland Church of England School, would often become agitated but the van had much to keep him occupied on journeys.

It even had a DVD player in the back for his other two children.

He added: “We got to the point where we didn’t want to drive anywhere as he (Connor) would kick seats, so I said why don’t we get the van. It wasn’t expensive but I have spent months working on it.”

The father of three has spent £4,200 on the vehicle which was stolen from outside their home in Saltings Lane.

The builder was shocked to find it missing.

He said: “I woke up on in the morning and it was gone. I have never had anything stolen before. It’s not the cost but I had bits and pieces in there. It would be nice to know where it is. I had bought new alloys and polished it so it did look nice. It was an older van so I didn’t expect it to be stolen.”

Kent Police has confirmed they are investigating the theft which is believed to have taken place between 8pm on Friday, September 2 and 10.45am on Sunday. At present, no arrests have been made however enquiries are ongoing.

The theft follows a spate of other similar incidents in the Malling area, the most recent of which was when thieves took a £28,000 motorhome from the driveway of a house in Ritch Road, Snodland, on Sunday, August 14.

Anyone with information can phone police on 101.