AGE Concern is appealing for help with repair bills, after vandals ruined its specially adapted minibus, leaving 100 housebound pensioners even more isolated.

The minibus, funded through the National Lotteries Board, is used four days a week to take people to day care centres, where they get valuable social contact with others, and can enjoy a freshly cooked meal.

Ellen Horrocks, a day care user said: "Going to the day centre is the only time I manage to get out. I really miss the company, I can't get out unless I get picked up."

Stuart Murray, chief officer, said: "We rely on donations and income from trading activities to fund many of our services and this unexpected expense of £900 has placed a real burden on our finances.

"An insurance claim would dramatically increase the premiums charged and so we have no option but to look for savings elsewhere. We are sorry for the difficulties that our users are facing and hope to resume a normal service soon."

Anyone would like to make a donation to help pay for the minibus repairs, can be made at Age Concern offices in Wigan, Leigh or Ashton, by calling in or writing.