A DISABLED grandfather has been "left stranded" after part of his wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) was stolen.

Between August 12 and 13 a catalytic converter was stolen from Harry Day's vehicle that was parked on Woodside Road, Salisbury, leaving "extensive damage".

As a result the car has been written off, leaving the 53-year-old without any mode of transport.

Harry is living with secondary progressive Multiple Sclerosis, and used the WAV to attend medical appointments and join his family on trips.

Harry's son, Darren, said the incident was "unfortunate", adding: "We were just targeted by opportunists.

"We haven't heard anything else on the matter but it is just a pity to target a disabled person. If we do sort a new one we don't want it to just get vandalised again.

"Those who understand the effects of this debilitating illness will appreciate the toll this takes on the sufferer and their loved ones - the inability to perform almost any physical function without help is challenging, impacting mental health as well."

A statement from Wiltshire Police said: "We have received a report relating to the theft of a catalytic converter from a vehicle, which occurred sometime between 2pm on August 12 and 11am on August 13.

"The vehicle was parked in Woodside Road. If anyone has any information which would assist identifying the person/persons responsible they should call 101 and quote crime reference number 54190079760.”

Wiltshire councillor for Salisbury Bemerton, the area where the incident took place, Ricky Rogers, said: “I was very sad to learn of this crime, it does not happen very often and does not reflect the values of my Bemerton community.

"I would ask whoever carried out this crime to stop and think of the impact of your actions. Bemerton has a great community spirit of which this type of crime has no place.”