A £34,000 minibus has been donated to Little Havens children's hospice.

The top-of-the-range bus will allow more children and their familes to enjoy day trips this summer.

The 17-seater Iveco vehicle has been donated to the hospice, based in Thundersley, by the Stanley Sanger Trust and the Variety Club.

It can accommodate up to five wheelchairs.

Steve Lawman, head of care, said: "Our current minibus is getting old and we can only fit in two electric wheelchairs. This means we have to do two trips, or the children have to take it in turns to go out for the day.

"This new vehicle will mean we can plan for more visits, especially with the summer coming up."

The Little Havens care team often take children out to attractions such as Hanningfield Reservoir, Marsh Farm, in South Woodhem Ferrers, and Southend seafront.

Norman Kaphan, chief executive of the Variety Club, said: "We currently have 1,750 Sunshine Coaches on the road, each averaging 10,000 miles a year carrying an average of 13 children.

"Sunshine Coaches ensure children can interact with the world around them in an environment of fun, entertainment and education, while ensuring they are transported as safely as possible."