Since the old Oak Park centre closed, there are no lights around the empty building, and this is proving a night time haven for antisocial behaviour. I hope they’ll commence demolition here soon.

Yesterday, I placed an appeal for anyone who might have seen a black wheelchair, or those who stole it from a driveway in Holly Lane, Walsall Wood – sadly, it was later found on Oak Park near the skatepark, vandalised beyond repair.

Words fail me: I cannot express strongly enough my utter contempt for the inhuman scum who would do such a thing. The owner Graham is a local amputee who depends on the chair for mobility, and who had left the chair on their drive after getting into his car. That it should have been taken is outrageous and offensive.

Police investigations continue, and the victim’s friends and family have launched a Gofundme appeal to procure a replacement. You can read about it and donate here.

Click on the image to visit the donation page.

Following publicity yesterday, I believe this story may well be featured on Radio WM on tomorrow morning’s breakfast show (Friday 14th October 2016) and perhaps also be subject to a report in the Advertiser.

My personal gratitude is extended to all who have offered information, looked for the chair or donated: You are all examples of true community spirit in action. Thank you so very much.

In the mean time, if you have any information, enquiries are ongoing: You can mail me in total confidence: BrownhillsBob at Googlemail dot com, or contact West Midlands Police by dialling 101 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.