A FAMILY are devastated after their holiday-ready caravan, containing six years of memories, was stolen from their driveway just 24 hours before their departure.
Thieves towed away the 24ft-long white Fleetwood Colchester caravan from the Bradshaw family's driveway in Chelmer Road, Chelmsford, in broad daylight between 9.40am and 2pm last Thursday.
Inside were the childrens' DVDs, Nintendo DS games consoles, clothes, homemade jewellery, home movies and Sue Bradshaw's cherished holiday diary.
"We are completely and utterly devastated," she said.
"It was our pride and joy and a little bit of heaven that was taken away from us.
"The materials can be replaced but it's the memories that will never come back – and that really does cut you up."
Mrs Bradshaw bought the caravan in 2007 for £8,500, while the items inside – many of which were memories of their holidays in Ireland and Cornwall since – are worth about £1,500.
Mrs Bradshaw, 43, her husband Lyndon and their children, 14-year-old Liam and Hannah, 12, were at work and school when the vehicle was taken.
As a result, the family were forced to cancel their Easter holiday to Suffolk.
After the incident, Mrs Bradshaw said her daughter was very upset when she saw her mum distressed, while Liam now locks his door.
Speaking on Saturday, she added: "I'm waking up, like today, and remembering things that were in there. My nan is 87 years of age and gave me a glasses case.
"The thieves will chuck it away but it's mine – it's the little things that have had a big impact.
"It's a stone that's been dropped into a pool that has sent absolute ripples through the family – we are heartbroken, absolutely heartbroken."
Despite their troubles, Mrs Bradshaw thanked friends and family for their fantastic support.
Mrs Bradshaw said police told her the theft was the latest in a string of caravan thefts, including a case on March 5 in nearby Storms Way, Chelmer Village.
Police are appealing for witnesses.
A spokesman said: "The caravan is a 24ft-long white and purple Fleetwood Colchester design. Various items were on board the caravan including Calor gas bottles, a 19in flatscreen TV and an awning.
"Any witnesses or anyone with information about the whereabouts of the caravan should contact officers at Chelmsford police station on 101."
The registration is S999 SNB.
