A NURSERY school near Darlington will be able to transport its pupils more efficiently thanks to a minibus designed by a local car dealer.

Lesley Thompson, proprietor of the High Bank Nursery, in Stapleton, near Darlington, contacted Simon Bailes Peugeot in the hope the company could help.

A converted nursery van was designed for the school, with forward-facing seats, which meet safety regulations and are fitted with seatbelts to cater for all ages.

The award-winning Simon Bailes bodyshop also designed the minibus' colour to match the High Bank colours.

Simon Bailes, managing director of the Peugeot dealership, said: "We find that by listening to all our customers to understand their needs, we can provide the perfect vehicle.

Lynne Thompson, from High Bank Nursery, said: "We needed some form of transport to take the four to ten-year-olds to schools all over North Yorkshire after breakfast club at the nursery."