A FAMILY run coach firm targeted by arsonists this week received a double body blow hours later when thieves ransacked the garage.

On Sunday night five coaches were wrecked when arsonists fired the Chesters and Sons Coach Station compound on Sharp Street, Walkden.

Owners Harry and Dianne Chester cut short their holiday in Lanzarote and jetted back following the blaze which caused damage running into hundreds of thousands of pounds.

But just hours after their return on Monday night the thieves cleared their workshop of tools and camera and video equipment worth £20,000.

This morning Harry, 42, stormed: "There's not a screwdriver or spanner left in the place. They have taken everything right down to the tub of hand cleaner.

"Nuts, bolts, screws and trolley jacks have gone. They have just emptied the place. They must have been in here for hours."

Following the fire, in which four 53-seater and one 21-seater vehicles were wrecked, the coach firm has received dozens of offers of help from nearby coach companies.

But the blaze also destroyed the alarm system which meant the gang of thieves were able to clear the workshop of tools undetected.

The devastated company boss revealed that the spate of crime will cost his firm tens of thousands of pounds in increased insurance premiums.

He added: "I will lose a 60 per cent and a 45 per cent no claims bonus on my insurance cover. It means my premiums will go up by an extra £20,000 next year."

Now Harry is offering a "substantial" reward for any information which could help recover the stolen tools or track down the arsonists. Anyone who can help should contact 0161-799 9800.

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