An 86-year-old Sutton Coldfield man is appealing for public help after his campervan was stolen from outside his home for the second time in four years. Tony Napier, a resident of Boldmere Road, discovered the vehicle missing in late August, with no trace of it since.
The motorhome, a Swift "Escape" model built on a Fiat chassis and bearing registration plate YX13 DHJ, was previously stolen in February 2022 but recovered shortly afterwards. Tony and his wife have owned the cherished vehicle for around 13 years, using it to travel extensively across the world.
Theft occurred overnight in August
Tony believes the theft took place overnight between midnight and 6am on August 23 or 24, from their property on Boldmere Road in Sutton Coldfield. The couple has expressed heartbreak over the loss, describing the campervan as having "completely vanished off the face of the earth."
The disappearance of their primary mode of transport has left the elderly couple struggling with basic daily errands. Getting groceries now requires Tony to take two separate bus rides followed by a lengthy walk on foot.
Police investigation underway
West Midlands Police has confirmed they are actively investigating the theft and are appealing to the public for any information. Anyone with relevant details or sightings is urged to contact police on 101, quoting crime reference 20/374663/26.
The case highlights the vulnerability of elderly residents to vehicle crime and the significant impact such thefts can have on their independence and daily lives. Tony's appeal comes as he hopes the community can help locate the vehicle that has been central to his and his wife's travels for over a decade.
