STAFF at Sunfield School in Clent have described the acquisition of two new minibuses as 'an absolute god-send'.

The school, in Woodman Lane, took delivery of the nine-seater minibuses yesterday (Wednesday).

Ian Jones, director of appeals and development at the school, said: "We are situated in a rural location and without these minibuses, it would be very difficult for us to reach the community.

"We have children at Sunfield who have very complex learning issues and we need the minibuses to take the children on educational and social trips to swimming pools, leisure centres, cafes, shops and colleges.

"These minibuses help open up the world to our young people, without them, trips for learning and leisure would be almost impossible "Although we do have a fleet of vehicles at the school, some of them are quite old now and need replacing".

Money for the minibuses has been raised through several charitable trusts, significantly from the Cadbury family.

Further funds were supplied by Halesowen and Rowley Regis Rotary Club which organised the Great Black Country Road Run in Halesowen which a number of Sunfield staff and students took part in.

Theresa Gregory from Barclays Bank also took part in aid of Sunfield and her sponsorship was matched by the bank.

But there'll be no let up in the fundraising at the special school.

Ian Jones said: "We are desperately trying to obtain a third vehicle and we are just £1,500 short of our target."

If anyone can help they can contact Ian on 01562 882253 or email him at fundraising@sunfield.org.uk