CAR and coach hire firm Dangerfields has been plunged into chaos after a thief stole its entire bookings for Christmas and New Year.

Now it is appealing to people who have made bookings to call back to ensure they aren't missed out.

The firm, which has lost all record of everything from festive office parties to airport runs, is determined to ensure none of its customers are let down.

Director Judy Young said: "It appears that someone has made a determined effort to damage us by taking our ledgers and day book. They didn't steal cash or any valuables. But we will make sure it will be business as usual."

The break-in, which is the first in Dangerfields' 87-year history, happened at the firm's Stratton Road base between Saturday night and Sunday morning.

Driver Pete Chester arrived at work to find an intruder had forced the premises' front door, entered two offices and stolen ledgers, as well as copies, logging business for the remainder of this month, December and January.

Computers at the scene on to which Dangerfields is currently transferring its records were left untouched.

Swindon police are investigating and have taken fingerprints of the crime scene.

"There are hundreds of bookings worth about £250,000," added Mrs Young.

"It includes car, limousine and coach trips as well as self-drive. Everything from shopping trips and airport runs for Christmas holidays were in there and what we want is for everyone to contact us so we can re-confirm their booking."

The firm, which has an annual turnover of £1 million, employs 45 staff including coach drivers, chauffeurs and clerical workers.

The firm is willing to offer a reward to anyone who is able to find the records or help with information leading to them.

It can be contacted in the following ways:

main number: (01793) 534445

emergency number: (01793) 491887

mobile number: 07971 599685

email: danger3303@aol.com