CHILDREN with special needs in Worcester are travelling to school in style - in a fleet of 15 Mercedes-Benz minibuses.

The new cars, called 'Sprinters', are being used to ensure the children get to school safely, as well as helping to take the elderly and visually impaired to day centres around the region.

Eight of the cars bought by Worcestershire County Council come as a collection of 16 and 17 seaters, each with a tail-lift and space for four wheelchairs. Larger Mercedes with more seats, of which there are seven, make up the full collection.

The Mercedes were supplied by Mudie-Bond, Kidderminster, and were converted in Goole. The authority also has a back-order for three Mercedes Axor gritters, two of which weigh a hefty 26 tonnes.

Pictured (above) is delivery driver John Meliallo with one of the new Sprinter Traveliner minibuses.