Motorhome reunion bittersweet for Stalybridge couple

An elderly couple from Stalybridge have been left with mixed feelings after being reunited with their stolen motorhome, which has been damaged and some items from inside taken. 

David and Joyce Hansell woke up on the morning of Friday 10 July to find that their Swift Escape motorhome had disappeared from their drive on Arlies Lane. 

David, 73, and Joyce, 69, had bought the motorhome - which has a bike rack on the back and solar panel on the roof - in 2013 so they can enjoy trips away and it contained a host of sentimental and personal items. 

After the police were informed and the Reporter launched an appeal which was shared by hundreds of people on social media, the motorhome was eventually found two weeks later by police at a body repair shop in Salford - with markers all over it. 

It was then taken to Mansfield Recovery & Repair garage in Trafford Park before being detained by the police. 

The door was damaged, where the thief or thieves had gained entry, and the steering column and electrics were also damaged. 

A number of items were also stolen from inside the motorhome - including expensive chairs, a TV and a portable vacuum cleaner - while the rest of the couple’s belongings were thrown into bin liners and stuffed in the bathroom.  

The damage is now being assessed by a reputable company and David and Joyce hope that the motorhome can be returned to its former glory. 

But being without their prized vehicle has unfortunately affected their plans to get away for a holiday this summer. 

Their daughter Alison said: “My parents were truly devastated at the total disregard of their property and personal items - a lot had been bought for them as presents over the years. I went to help my parents sort through the bags where we washed everything including cushions and blankets.

“The community has been amazing with offers of support and information as my parents are well known and well liked in Stalybridge. 

“Sadly they have lost deposits for holidays they have booked this summer and there will be a delay in getting parts due to the pandemic, so it is just a waiting game.

“I just wish people would go to work and earn an honest days living so they too could have nice things, rather than steal from senior citizens that do so much for the community.” 

Main image:

David and Joyce (left) and their motorhome.