School launches fundraiser to replace stolen minibus named after late teacher

A primary school in Haughton Green is reeling after its minibus was stolen over the summer holidays.

Thieves took ‘Charlotte’s Bus’ from the staff carpark of St John Fisher RC Primary in August. It was named after its former deputy head Charlotte Conlon, who died aged just 32 in 2016 after a cancer diagnosis. 

The school also planted an alder tree in her memory in 2022, as well as naming an award after her, which is presented to a pupil each year who most embodies Charlotte’s values. 

“The minibus had huge sentimental value to us all here, as it was donated by the family of our deputy head, Charlote Conlon, who sadly passed away in 2016,” said the school’s Administrator, Liz Kay. 

Bought with money from Charlotte’s estate in 2017 by her parents Amanda and Dennis, the minibus is painted black with ‘Charlotte’s Bus’ written on the front and the school’s name along the side. 

Staff at St John Fisher have set up a Gofundme account to help raise the £15,000 they’ll need to buy a replacement.  

“We were devastated to learn the minibus had been stolen during the summer break,” said St John Fisher’s Head Teacher, Mandy Harris. 

“It wasn't just a school minibus; it was so much more. Charlotte Conlon had been the Deputy Headteacher at St John Fisher and in May 2016 she sadly lost her battle against cancer. She was a highly respected and loved member of our school community.   

"The minibus has provided hundreds of trips over the years for our children to enhance their education. We desperately need to replace the bus and have sought to fund a replacement with the combination of insurance and donations. 

“We hope to have a new minibus for the children as soon as possible but it will always be known as Charlotte's bus." 

The minibus still hasn’t been recovered.