An Accrington coach hire company provided children with long-term health conditions a rare opportunity to visit the coast free of charge.

Coach Hire Comparison announced its support for charitable initiatives by giving parents and young people, aged between 16 and 26, a free trip to Scarborough in North Yorkshire.

It was a key initiative in Leeds Children’s Hospitals summer programme and offered a rare sense of normality and connection with peers facing similar challenges.

It worked in collaboration with its supply partner A&A Coach Travel, which drove the families to the seaside town.

Darren Meade, a youth worker at St James’ Hospital in Leeds, said: "For many patients, the trip to Scarborough was their only chance to visit the coast this year.

“These young people live with complex and chronic conditions and experiences such as these offer a rare sense of normality and connection with peers facing similar challenges.

“We’re extremely grateful for the donation of an entire transport package.

"Thanks to this, we can use saved funds to create more invaluable experiences that enhance our patients' well-being.

"Outings such as these are essential to the wrap-around care we strive to provide."

When the company found out about the trips and what it would mean to the hospital, it chose to provide them free of charge.

Antoni LaPulisa, director of A&A Coach Travel, said:  It was our pleasure to transport the group safely and efficiently on the day.

"The sun shone and a great time was had by all, including our driver who thoroughly enjoyed working with the group.”

This scheme was one of many performed this summer by the company, which also accompanied the Lancashire Schools FA Under 16s team to the English Schools Football Association Finals Day, where the team emerged victorious.

Matt Hanson, head of Coach Hire Comparison, added: “These events are more than just about transportation.

"They are about creating positive experiences and lasting memories for those involved, while fostering community support, well-being and inclusivity.

“I had a great time accompanying the trip and we look forward to supporting similar initiatives in future.”