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Thieves tried to break in at Blackpool Carers Centre, which provides respite care and support for people who look after sick relatives.

They put the charity’s minibus off the road after smashing a window.

They also tried to get into the group’s Beaverbrooks House premises in Newton Drive, breaking a glass pane in the front door, but running off after alarms sounded in the early hours of Saturday.

The smashed window of Blackpool Carers' minibus Molly, which put it off the road at a crucial time for the charity

But the damage to the minibus, which staff and carers’ affectionately call Molly, meant that they would not be able to take youngsters to Blackburn Ice Rink or the carers taking part in its Bang The Drum music project to visit the Music Experience in Liverpool.

Luckily, Marton Primary Academy heard about their plight and came to the rescue by lending them their minibus.

Julie Holland said: “It could not have come at a worse time, just before half term when we trips booked all week for our carers.

“Had it not been for the offer of a loan of alternative transport then the trips would certainly of been at risk of cancellation. They were all fully booked.

The attempted break-in at Blackpool Carers centre in Newton Drive

“Molly was acquired in 2010 through youth opportunities funding. It was a funding bid submitted by our young carers and gave us enough to buy her second hand. She is a bit old and saggy and worn but the carers love her.

“But we have been overwhelmed and amazed by the support of our friends in the community who have offered help.

“It was a nasty thing to do but the silver lining is that people’s reaction afterwards has been absolutely wonderful. We are very grateful.

“The funny thing is, it was Random Acts of Kindness Day on Monday, and we were out and about posting chocolate through neighbours’ doors.”

She said the charity is now hoping to replace the front door with a solid one to improve security and is appealing for help.

She said: “The hardest thing is that the youngsters come here because it is a refuge and a safe place for them.

“Some of our younger carers have found the break-in attempt upsetting, just knowing that someone has tried to get in.”

Lancashire Police confirmed that an attempted break-in had taken place and that they were investigating.

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