Coach firm back on the road after vandalism attack

A coach company is back up and running thanks to the help it received from other bus firms after its vehicles were damaged in a vandalism attack.

Avon and Somerset Police were called after "significant damage" - which could cost £100,000 to fix - was caused to minibuses and coaches at a storage yard near Midsomer Norton in Somerset on Tuesday.

Other coach firms stepped in to help, offering to fit new glass to damaged vehicles, and the help has enabled Centurion Travel to be able to fulfil its school contracts "as usual", the company said.

Centurion Travel managing director Martin Spiller said: "All the local coach operators dropped everything... and helped us put glass in."

He said: "Luckily we've got a good bunch down here.

"There was one member of the public who walked off the street and helped us fit the windows. One lady brought in cakes for the workers.

"The community has been amazing."

The company operates 28 coaches - 10 of which were vandalised. Some of them were heritage vehicles.

Police arrested three boys on Tuesday and are asking witnesses to come forward.

Two of the boys were later de-arrested and will be interviewed later on, police said.

One boy was interviewed and released on conditional bail.

Spiller said: "It makes you feel sad. I'm 65 this year and I can honestly say, I've never been so angry.

"At the end of the day we work for the public - whether it be private hire or schools."

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