Tony is number one passenger in new St Wilfrid's Hospice bus

The shiny blue Renault Master has been specially adapted so it can take two wheelchairs and four passengers. The vehicle will enable patients with mobility problems to get to the hospice quickly and safely.

Thanks to money from a charitable trust and a helping hand from the suppliers, the vehicle cost just under 28,000 and work to adapt it was carried out by Atlas Vehicle Conversions Ltd.

Tony, who has been receiving care at St Wilfrid's since 2007, was asked to mark the delivery of the vehicle and make the first journey in it.

On arrival at the hospice, he was greeted by staff and volunteers.

Occupational therapist Jenny Thomas said: "This exciting new acquisition will not only keep us ahead of current legislation and recommended safe practice nationally, but also enable our patients to travel safely and in comfort, without the effort and struggle of getting in and out of a car.

"The new vehicle, which has a tail lift, plenty of head clearance and a clamp for wheelchairs, will also benefit our staff and volunteers, by reducing the need to physically assist our patients.

"We hope patients currently unable to access our facilities, such as the day hospice, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and complementary therapy due to their physical limitations, will now be able to enjoy full use of them. This in turn will give much-needed support and respite to their families at home."

What do you think? Click here to send a letter to [email protected] or leave a comment below.

Click here to go back to Chichester news

Click here to go back to Bognor Regis news

Click here to go back to Midhurst and Petworth news

To tell us where in the world you are reading this story click on the link below to add yourself to our readers' map.

MAP