Fun-filled day trips are on the agenda for young people at Derian House Children’s Hospice after a generous couple donated a brand new £50,000 minibus to the charity.
Harry (9) and Alfie (10) were the first Derian House visitors to use the fabulous transport.
The cheeky pair enjoyed an adventure to St Annes beach where they flew their brand new kites, built sandcastles, and finished it all off with a chippy tea.
From movie trips to shopping sprees and seaside outings, the new wheels will turbocharge experiences for the youngsters who visit the Chorley hospice – all thanks to generous couple David Woods (80) and his wife, Anita (77) of Lytham.
Anita – who is a mixed media artist specialising in paintings, pottery, and dressmaking, said: “David and I have been very lucky over the years in the attention that my paintings have received. We decided we wanted to use their success to help others.
“As we don’t have children ourselves, we wanted to do something worthwhile to support young people. We knew about Derian House, and what they do there, and so decided to donate a minibus so that the young people are able to do more of the things they love outside of the hospice.
“The mini bus was actually David’s idea. We’re both not getting any younger, and we recognise the importance of accessibility. I have had a new knee, which means I am restricted somewhat. And David now needs his scooter when we go out anywhere. It just hits you all of a sudden. It really makes you appreciate life.”
The minibus has been branded with an eye-catching design chosen by Derian House’s children and young people.
“I have seen the design for the minibus and I think it is fantastic,” continued Anita.
“I actually used to paint minibuses just like this back in the day – completely freehand. It just makes it even more fitting. Derian House is a wonderful charity and I hope that the new minibus will bring smiles and create lots of valuable memories for all the young people who use it.”
Anita and David visited Derian House last week to take a look at the new minibus, and to meet young people and staff at the charity.
Mick Croskery, head of income generation at Derian House, said: “David and Anita’s heartfelt donation means the world to our young people.
“They will be able to enjoy even more trips out – giving them the freedom to do the things they enjoy outside of the hospice. Whether that’s a day out to the seaside, going to the cinema, or even just enjoying a shopping trip with friends.
“For our children and young people, making these memories is so important and we do everything in our power to make sure they make the most of every moment. They are already gearing up for some adventures and planning where they’d like to go.”
Derian House Children’s Hospice, based in Chorley, cares for more than 400 babies, children, young people and their families from across the North West. Care is free to families at Derian House, but it will cost £6million to run the hospice this year.
