Specialised wheelchair returned to owner after car theft

A woman who was left devastated after her car and vital specialist wheelchair were stolen over the weekend in Buckfastleigh has now been successfully reunited with her property.

The theft, which occurred between Saturday, 16 May, and Sunday, 17 May, saw a VW Golf Estate, belonging to Sarah Gaisford, a former jockey and wheelchair tennis player, taken along with her sports wheelchair and other specialist equipment. 

Sarah Gaisforth in her tennis wheelchair - Facebook

The car also contained a freewheel that attaches to the wheelchair to make it easier to move over rough terrain, which Sarah uses for walking her dog following a fall at Exeter Racecourse in 2007 left her paralysed from the chest down. 

The incident caused "significant disruption and concern", particularly due to the specialist nature of the items involved.

Following swift enquiries and coordinated efforts, the stolen car was located and has since been returned to the owner, along with the missing equipment, which was located by a member of the public.

The recovery marks a positive outcome after what had been a distressing experience for the victim.

Before the items were recovered, Sarah was quoted as saying: "I am absolutely devastated and in shock. This theft has taken everything from me that I need to live a fulfilling and healthy life.

"It’s my socialisation as well. Tennis has given me a purpose, a goal and something to focus on.

"I just hope I can get back to my life again."

Sector Inspector James Johnson said: “Both the police and the victim are incredibly thankful to everyone involved in helping recover the car and her equipment. It’s such a relief to the owner to have these important items back.

“Efforts to establish the full circumstances surrounding the theft remain ongoing, and enquiries continue.”

Anyone with further information relating to this incident is encouraged to come forward quoting 50260124473.