Charity shop reopens after suspected arson destroyed vital van

Overgate Hospice has been "overwhelmed by the kindness and support" it received after a suspected arson attack seriously damaged on of their vans.
Smoke damaged van and wall at Overgate Hospice Charity Shop in Hebden BridgeSmoke damaged van and wall at Overgate Hospice Charity Shop in Hebden Bridge
Smoke damaged van and wall at Overgate Hospice Charity Shop in Hebden Bridge

The hospice has launched a fundraising appeal to buy a replacement van after theirs was smoke damaged following a suspected arson attack in the early hours of yesterday morning (Monday).

Firefighters from Mytholmroyd Fire Station were called to the incident at 3.17am where a skip fire on Valley Road, Hebden Bridge caused smoke damage to the Overgate Hospice furniture and vintage shop.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The van used by the shop to make deliveries was extensively damaged and the hospice has set up an appeal to buy a replacement.

Tracey Broadbent, head of retail at Overgate Hospice, said; "As we are without a van any furniture collections and deliveries will need to be rearranged and we ask that you please bear with whilst we make alternative arrangements.

"This will obviously affect our income."

The shop is now open as usual and temporary replacement vans mean that this weekend's Overgate Hospice Colour Run will be going ahead as planned.

The fire started in a skip which was situated in a fenced area alongside other bins belonging to both the charity shop and the neighbouring garage.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The hospice van, which was parked alongside the fenced area, is extensively damaged and has been written off.

The outside wall of the shop itself has been smoke damaged and all nearby premises were evacuated due to the melting of a gas pipe at the rear of the fenced refuse area.

Although the cause of the fire is yet to be officially established, authorities are treating the incident as suspected arson and will be investigating further.

A spokesperson from the police said: "An incident has taken place between 4am and 5am on July 3. A Ford van was parked near to a bin which was set on fire.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"As a result anyone who saw anyone suspicious in the area should contact Calderdale Valley CID on 101 quoting crime reference number 13170302500."

Information can also be passed on anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

To donate to the Overgate Hospice van appeal visit their Just Giving page.