Simon Bailes Peugeot is supporting a worthy cause in its local community by supplying a North Yorkshire charity with a purpose-built minibus after a year of fundraising.

The Peugot Boxer – named ‘James’ - can carry 12 people, together with two wheelchairs and is being used to users of the Ripon Community Link transport service, volunteers and staff to events and activities across the district.

The charity will be ready to get vulnerable people back on the road after the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak thanks to the efforts of Simon Bailes Peugeot.

Based at Saint Wilfred’s Bungalow and Ripon Walled Garden, Ripon Service Link supports adults and young people with learning disabilities.

Victoria Ashley, Ripon Community Link chief executive, said: “We are extremely grateful to Simon Bailes Peugeot for their expertise.

“This is the first time that we have been able to purchase a new vehicle and the specification has been designed to meet the need of our members. James really is going to make a big difference.

“We are also indebted to everyone who gave so generously to the appeal – individuals, businesses and organisations alike – and thanks to their generosity and support, we now have this magnificent vehicle.

“Our ability to provide supported transport is key to the provision of our services.”

Following a near year-long appeal, the charity contacted Simon Bailes Peugeot with a set of specifications it required for the vehicle.

The new minibus was unveiled at a celebration event, attended by Simon Bailes, which was hosted by Rudding Park Hotel, Harrogate.

Simon Bailes, chief executive of Simon Bailes Peugeot, said: “We are delighted to have been of assistance to Ripon Community Link in supplying a vehicle that meets their exact requirements.

“I’m sure James will provide many years of reliable and faithful service and will be a real asset in allowing it to extend the scope of its work and broaden the range of opportunities available to users.”

The minibus replaces its former vehicle ‘Kermit’ which, after many years’ service, had finally reached the end of the road.