Stonecroft Residential Nursing Home, part of the Cheshire Homes group, has bought a specially adapted Mercedes Sprinter 414CDI to take residents out on day excursions, hospital visits and shopping trips.  The home at Barnetby le Wold near Brigg caters for up to 29 residents, aged between 18 and 65, who have physical diabilities.

The long-wheelbase Sprinter arrived via H&L Garages, Killingholme, and was converted by Derby-based coach and bodybuilder Frank Guy, which fitted a tail-lift and docking points to accommodate up to five wheelchairs.

"The new minibus is excellent, as it can accommodate many different types of wheelchair" says Maintenance Co-ordinator Peter Allwood.  "This means that every resident can have a break from their everyday environment and enjoy more excursions.  "We are in a remote setting, so to be able to get the residents out and about makes a world of difference to them."

Mr Allwodd adds: "We researched the commercial vehicle market carefully and the Sprinter catered for all our needs.  What's more we are confident that as a Mercedes it will give many miles of reliable motoring."