A Shipley community group has got its hands on a new bus - two years after their previous one was destroyed by vandals.

The specially-adapted minibus will be used by Kirkgate Community Centre Users' Committee to transport people to activities at the centre.

It has taken two years of fundraising by the members to replace the bus which was vandalised in a Shipley car park.

Vandals had cut through the brake pipes and put the bus out of operation, leaving users without regular transport.

The members managed to raise £21,000 with a variety of fundraisers to provide the service, which includes two drivers and two escorts. And thanks to a £65,000 community fund award, the service - which can be hired by other groups - is now secure for the next three years.

Centre manager Sue Thomas said: "The arrival of a specially adapted minibus heralds the start of a new community transport project for local people who are unable to access public transport and take part in community activities and courses."

She added: "Committee members have worked tirelessly to raise enough money to buy a replacement bus.

"We can't thank local people and businesses enough for their generous donations and continuous support of our campaign."

For the past two years the centre has had to rely on the generosity of other groups to borrow vehicles.

The keys to the bus were officially handed over by Graham Layle, of Help the Aged, which supplied the vehicle, to former Lord Mayor of Bradford Councillor Stanley King (Con, Heaton).

Coun King said: "It is beautiful, and it reflects very great credit on the people who have found the money for it."

Jenny Penhall, 94, of Northcliffe View, Crag Road, Shipley, said: "It is very nice, very comfortable and there is a lot of room in it."

And fellow member Marjorie Clarke, 78, who lives in the same complex as Mrs Penhall, said it was something they could not do without.

"It is very important for us to be able to come here every week," she said

For more information about the bus service contact Mrs Thomas or Ken Cartwright on (01274) 437133 or 580186.