BUS boss Robert Tuffnell is spreading the Christmas message this year -- by taking it on the road.

He has spent hours transforming his minibus into a grotto on wheels, complete with lights, tinsel and a selection of novelties.

A model of Father Christmas dances on his dashboard and a singing parrot greets customers with a carol.

"Each year I get something different to add to the bus," said Robert.

"This year I've got a musical Christmas bell that sets off everytime a passenger walks underneath."

Robert, manager at M and M Coaches, Accrington, hit upon the idea of bringing the Christmas spirit to his passengers in his first year as driver more than three years ago and it was an instant success.

"I thought it would be nice for people to get on a bus with music and decorations on rather than another boring bus," said Robert, 47.

"Customers thought it was great and I always get asked if I'm doing it again. Sometimes as early as March people want to know if I'm going to decorate the bus. It's just nice to be different."

Robert, of Waterloo Street, Clayton-le-Moors, launched the bus yesterday with a journey from Accrington to Blackburn. In complying with safety laws, he has nothing to obstruct his view of the road ahead.

And to make sure more people can enjoy the experience, Robert is planning random routes all across the boroughs. Future passengers will be greeted by Father Christmas himself.

"Actually it's me dressed up," admitted Robert.

"I will be inspecting the tickets and giving out sweets to the kids. Christmas is the time of year when people are supposed to be happy. I just wish it could last more than one day."

Are you doing something to cheer up folk this Christmas? Ring our newsdesk on 01254 678678 and tell us about it.

Picture: Robert Tuffnell cheers up passengers (from left) Carolyn Hewitt, Bill Taylor, Evelyn Taylor, Ewart Cuthbert and Joan Cuthbert, and (right) at the wheel of his minibus grotto