Updated 11pm

THE MAN BEHIND BUMBLEance has branded the person who stole equipment from the ambulance for critically ill children “a blaggard”.

Equipment worth €800 was taken from the vehicle at the National Ploughing Championships in Laois earlier today.

Tony Heffernan said the incident occurred when he turned his back to take a call from parents of a sick child who wanted to book the BUMBLEance.

“One blaggard stole two lockers-worth of medical equipment.”

A number of oxygen saturation probes were stolen, devices used for monitoring blood oxygen levels.

The money that was lost could have been spent on two ‘angel trips’ – when the charity brings a terminally ill child home to die.

The incident has been reported to the guards, who have appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

Heffernan said the thief should “grow up and get a life”.

“We’re just trying to help sick kids.”

I hope you or anyone belonging to you never needs to use the BUMBLEance, but we’ll be there to help them if they do.

Heffernan said that apart from the theft, attending the Ploughing Championships has been a very positive experience, adding: ”People are so generous.”

The BUMBLEance team is currently trying to raise €250,000 to purchase and outfit a new ambulance. Once they reach their fundraising goal of €250,000, someone who made a donation will receive a 151 Mercedes car.

To contribute €4 to the cause, text BUZZ to 50300.

Heffernan and his wife Mary set up Bee for Battens in honour of their children, Saoirse and Liam, who both died from Batten’s Disease.

First published 3.35pm