Family 'devastated' after campervan theft at Drayton Manor
A family had their holiday thrown into turmoil after thieves stole a campervan containing passports, valuables and items of huge sentimental value.
A Katamarano Light campervan belonging to Mark Brockbank, 39 and his wife Hazel, 40, was stolen as the couple took their children around Drayton Manor theme park to kick-start their three week summer holiday.
As the Belfast family, including six year old Kirsten and four year old Hayley, enjoyed a day at the theme park on July 1, thieves stole the van, which also contained a beloved teddy bear that belonged to their son Austin, who died shortly after his birth.
The van also contained bikes which the two girls had just received as Christmas presents, as well as bikes belonging to Mark and Hazel.
The family had planned a trip to La Rochelle, France, following their visit to Drayton Manor but were left with no means of transport or identification.
Mr Brockbank, a martial arts instructor, said: "We have been robbed of forming lovely memories as a family together.
"Our two young daughters are devastated as they have lost their bikes, scooters and teddies.
"A soft toy that was our son Austin's who is now in heaven was in the van and has great value to us.
"I am devastated that somebody would do this to us."
Despite their troubles, the family have been given some solace by the reaction of the public, who have rallied round to help them as much as possible.
They were given two nights of free accommodation at Drayton Manor by staff so the children could enjoy themselves while Mark and Hazel sorted out what their next steps would be.
Meanwhile, a Facebook appeal for help tracing the camper-van has been shared more than 3,400 times.
The family are still set to fly out to France, with new passports on the way.
After originally planning to go via Portsmouth using the camper-van, they are now in Liverpool waiting to fly out.
Mr Brockbank said: "We can't believe how kind people have been, I have literally had hundreds of people I have never met contacting me offering to help us in any way they can so we can enjoy our holiday.
"Things are looking a bit better for us now, even though I do believe the camper-van has gone, we are still going to enjoy our holiday.
"I want these evil people who did this to know they have shown me the best that is in humanity because in my corner there are thousands of people.
"I would like to thank every one who has offered their help."
The registration of the camper-van is LK13AEX.
