A NEARLY new minibus has been donated to a local charity by a Barnsley business.
Barnsley Local Mencap will once more be able to take adults with learning difficulties and disabilities on trips around Barnsley and the rest of the country almost four years since its last minibus was condemned.
The charity has been relying on hiring vehicles since its old minibus was deemed beyond repair.
There was a campaign in the Chronicle to raise money for repairs and to cover insurance - which did achieve a huge boost in funds and offers of help to repair it. But it was old and needed such significant work that it could not be kept on the road.
But now, Bartec Auto ID, based at Redbrook Business Park, has donated a nearly-new 17-seat minibus which the charity can use in the medium term until funds can be raised for a specially adapted vehicle which will be fully-accessible to wheelchairs.
“It’s such an incredible gesture,” said Mike Moran, development manager for the charity, which is currently based in various venues ahead of moving to a new home at Compass House, Castlereagh Street.
“It will be a huge benefit for us. Whenever we want to go anywhere we have to hire a vehicle which costs a lot of money.
“It’s absolutely fantastic and we are incredibly grateful.”
James Webb, who works for Bartec and is also a volunteer for Mencap, handed over the keys this week.
