BOLTON'S Age Concern is finding it easier to get out and about thanks to the donation of a fully accessible mini-bus.

The bus, formerly used by the Ring and Ride service, is one of a number of vehicles replaced with newer models by the Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Authority.

The older vehicles are refurbished and given to selected organisations throughout Greater Manchester.

Age Concern was given a 14-seat bus, complete with a tail lift at the back for wheelchair users.

The bus has proved a hit with Age Concern users and is enabling many more elderly people to get out and about.

"The bus has made a fantastic difference," said Jane Harrison, deputy chairwoman of Age Concern Bolton.

"We use the bus for a variety of trips and it has proved particularly beneficial for transporting those elderly persons with difficulty accessing standard types of transport."