A new set of wheels is in sight for students at Newman School in Rotherham thanks to a hearty donation from a town centre butcher.

Andy Birks of Andrew’s Butchery donated £5,000 from his Birkfest Festival towards the school’s fundraising campaign to replace their fleet of specialist transport.

Earlier this year, the school had its second adapted minibus stolen by callous thieves; the first was stolen last December. Both disappeared from the school’s site in Dinnington despite extra security.

As the vehicles were so specialised, adapted to securely fit large wheelchairs, the school has been unable to hire replacements. Their pupils, many of whom have complex needs, were unable to leave the school’s two sites for much of the last academic year for activities like hydrotherapy, horse riding and life skills.

The Friends of Newman School are running the fundraising campaign with a target of £51,000. You can donate here https://www.gofundme.com/f/5s4883-minibus-fundraiser