A VITAL community care centre is the proud owner of a sparkling new set of wheels.

The Myriad Centre in Barbourne, Worcester, has taken delivery of a minibus which has been donated by the Lord’s Taverners.

Maggie Allen, the centre manager, said the new green livery bus means disabled adults and teenagers can get about in “warmth and comfort”.

The centre gives support and provides activities and services for more than 20 people with complex needs and disabilities, offering one-to-one care.

Staff have been using a second-hand minibus, which has needed a lot of money spent on it to keep it on the road.

Centre trustee and treasurer Peter Reynolds applied to the Lord’s Taverners, one of the UK’s leading sporting and youth provision charities, for a new bus. The centre has now taken delivery of the new bus.

Mrs Allen said: “The second-hand bus had really run out of steam and was costing a lot to maintain.

“It wasn’t totally clapped out but we needed a new one.”

Matthew Patten, chief executive of the Lord’s Taverners, said, “This minibus will help the My-riad youngsters get out and enjoy new places and experiences.

“We are proud to support the staff, parents and young people at the centre.”

The minibus is used daily to pick up the centre’s 20-plus users from all corners of the county.

It is also used on day-trips and for special outings, which at this time of year include seasonal and festive events.

“We’ll now be able to get from A to B with assurance we’ll all be warm and comfortable,” said Mrs Allen.

“For example, on one occasion we’ve had the rear mobility lift break on the old minibus and have had to wait for it to be repaired. That will be a thing of the past.”

The centre is funded by the families of the service-users and receives cash through the social services and the NHS.

It is constantly appealing for volunteers and donations to help keep the centre going.

Anyone who can spare any time and thinks they can help should call 01905 729190 or e-mail enquiries@myriadcentre.org.uk.