Teenagers Arrested After Vandalism at Somerset Coach Firm

Two teenage boys have been arrested following extensive vandalism at Centurion Travel, a family-run coach company in Midsomer Norton, Somerset. The incident took place on the evening of Monday, April 13, when several coach windows were smashed at the company’s storage yard on West Road.

Company staff discovered the damage and detained one individual at the scene. According to witnesses, five teenagers with their faces covered were present during the attack. A boy in his mid-teens was initially arrested but later released; he will be interviewed at a later date. A second teenage boy was arrested the following day on suspicion of causing criminal damage and remains in police custody.

The destruction involved two minibuses, five single-decker coaches, and three double-decker coaches, with nearly every window shattered. Additionally, two privately owned cars and three vintage vehicles—rarely seen and difficult to repair—were also damaged.

Managing Director Martin Spiller expressed the severe impact on both the local community and his family business, which has operated since 1973. He noted that such an incident is unprecedented since the company opened its depot in Welton. The firm now faces tens of thousands of pounds in repair costs and the challenge of sourcing replacement vehicles to fulfill contracts.

Centurion Travel provides essential school transport services in the Bath and North East Somerset area. Mr. Spiller emphasized that his primary concern is ensuring these services resume promptly when schools reopen after the Easter break.

Avon and Somerset Police are investigating the case and urge anyone with information or dashcam footage to come forward. Witnesses can contact police on 101 using reference number 5226100931 or submit information through the online appeals form. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be made to the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or via their online form.