COMMUNITY groups in Malvern are to be given access to a pair of gas-powered buses.

The Malvern Hills Outdoor Centre takes delivery next week of two buses fuelled by liquid petroleum gas (LPG), to replace its ageing fleet.

When not needed by the centre, they will be available for hire by local community groups.

Centre manager Keith Falconer said the buses would be used to transport people to various locations.

He said that would include taking canoeists to Symonds Yat, mountaineers to the Black Mountains and dropping-off walkers at the far end of the hills so they can walk back to the centre's Old Hollow base.

"LPG buses don't produce quite as much power as petrol engines," said Mr Falconer, "But that's offset by the environmental benefits and the lower cost."

LPG fuel is less polluting to the environment than petrol and diesel, with lower carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide emissions.

The buses are being provided by Worcestershire County Council.

The council's fleet services manager, Paul Smith, said the mini-fleet would be used as a pilot scheme.

"The environmental aspects of running on LPG are very positive for the area," said Mr Smith, "We'll be keeping a close eye on how the minibuses perform to see if they could be useful in other parts of the county."

Anyone interested in hiring the buses, should ring 01905 768461.