YOUNGSTERS at a special school were devastated when their minibus conked out for good — but they are now smiling again.

Pupils at Millwood Primary Special School in Radcliffe used the bus for school trips and days out.

But they are happy again after being given a new minibus to replace their old banger.

Headteacher Helen Chadwick said the 121 children at the school were delighted with the new Variety Sunshine Coach which was donated by Morrisons.

She said: “The new bus is wonderful and will be a big boost for the whole school. It has a lift on it that allows people with wheelchairs to get in and out easily. It is one less thing for us to worry about when out on school trips.”

The vehicle was officially handed over at the school at an event attended by Bury FC player Danny Mayor and former Manchester City player Alex Williams.

Variety, the Children’s Charity, aims to give all youngsters the same opportunities to reach their potential, regardless of circumstance. The charity is famous for its bright coaches which it has been providing for 65 years.

The Morrisons Foundation — a charity set up by Morrisons to award grants for charity projects which improve lives — agreed to back the project.

A spokesman for the Morrisons Foundation said: “We were approached by Variety to purchase a new vehicle to support young people at the school, and we were delighted to award the grant which we hope will make a real difference.”

Lyn Staunton, North West development director for Variety, said: “The benefit of the bus is that they will be able to get involved more with the school curriculum enjoying fun days out.

“The disabled children who would not be able to be part of a fun day without the coach will now be able to be, thanks to the lift on the back of it.

“They will all be able to enjoy the same opportunities.

“The (Variety Sunshine Coaches) really are a lifeline for a lot of children. Variety give miles of smiles with their coaches.”

Charities needing funds can apply at morrisonsfoundation.com.