A distinctive yellow bus used to transport dogs across Ilkley and surrounding areas has been vandalised during an apparent attempted theft.
Billy’s Bus said someone tried to hot-wire the vehicle overnight, leaving it requiring repairs and forcing Wednesday’s service to be cancelled.
The disruption meant the team was unable to collect its usual group of dogs, while staff and volunteers were unable to work.
The organisation said it had also lost income and been left facing a “big garage bill” following the damage.
A spokesperson said:
“How anyone thought they could hot-wire a massive bright yellow bus, covered with giant paw prints, and get away with it — well, just genius.
“This yellow bus packed full of beautiful dogs provides volunteers, adults with learning difficulties and young adults who need support and direction in life the opportunity to find support, training, paid work, a brilliant job and a meaningful life.”
Billy’s Bus collects dogs from areas including Ilkley, Addingham and Silsden before taking them on three-hour outings for exercise and socialisation.
The service was founded by Laura Mohan and named after her Cavapoo, Billy.
The damaged vehicle was repaired with help from APW Cars and returned to the road today.
The organisation added:
“There will be extra beeps, smiles and waves as we roll through the towns in our beautiful bus packed full of fluffy love.”
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