A GREENOCK charity targeted by would-be thieves is today counting the cost of an attempted smash and grab of a van 'crucial' to its operations.

Criminals vandalised Ocean Youth Trust Scotland's only vehicle and tried to hotwire it during a raid which could cost the already Covid-hit organisation more than £500.

Stunned charity manager Hazel Wiseman told the Telegraph how the badly damaged Ford Transit was an essential part of OYT Scotland's activities.

Hazel said: "We were really shocked to find that an attempt had been made to steal the Trust's van.

"Not only is it clearly a charity-owned vehicle by the visible branding, but it's the only vehicle the Trust owns and is absolutely crucial for our day-to-day operations."

Raiders smashed a driver's side window and damaged a wing mirror prior to a botched bid to steal the van, which resulted in the ignition casing being tampered with.

OYT Scotland is a leading youth work charity and floating outdoor education centre based at Greenock's Victoria House.

Through adventurous residential sailing voyages and the help of hundreds of volunteers, the charity supports young people aged 12-25 to realise their potential through its unique model of youth work on the waves, both throughout Inverclyde and beyond.

Charity manager Hazel said: "OYT Scotland has been hit hard by the pandemic, as have so many of our fellow third sector organisations.

"This van is used for transporting materials and equipment to and from the boats when berthed at James Watt Dock and during vital winter refit work.

"We had been fundraising for the purchase of a new van, but like many third sector organisations, we've felt the impact of the pandemic on our donations."

Hazel added: "Our youth work voyages at sea have had to be put on hold at a time when young people have never needed it more.

"We look forward to the time when we return to a semblance of normality and can continue our life-changing work."

The attempted theft occurred some time between 3pm on December 12 and 5pm on January 5 while the van was parked on East Blackhall Street.

Any information regarding the crime should be passed to police through the 101 number, quoting reference KC0065012, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.