A HAMPSHIRE charity’s new play bus which will benefit vulnerable children across the south was launched in Romsey this week.

Deputy town mayor John Burgess and the chief executive of Honeypot, Simmi Woodwal, cut a yellow ribbon across the door of the yellow and black single decker decorated with charity’s honeybee logo.

During Monday’s ceremony in the Cornmarket, Mr Burgess said: “This is a great purpose-built bus which will provide a wonderful service for the vulnerable children and carers who use it. Children will have great fun playing on board.”

Simmi said: “We are absolutely delighted with our new play bus which will provide vital outreach support to those children who need it.”

The specially converted vehicle, customised at a cost of around £85,000 by Qualiti Conversions, is packed full of games and puzzles and has a disco with lights, karaoke machine and DVD player.

There’s even a purpose built kitchen with a microwave and a fridge.

The bus can take up to 12 children at a time along with the driver and two staff members.

Playbus manager Cindy Steele-Jones said the new vehicle has a big advantage over its predecesor: “It was difficult getting into schools with the old double-decker,” she said.

It’s also fitted with ramps so children with physical disabilities can now go aboard. Honeypot volunteers John and Tricia Pockett said the new bus was fantastic. “I’ve been helping Honeypot for about three years and I love doing the craft work with children.”

The playbus is also available for the public to hire out for parties or other events.

* The Honeypot Charity is staging a Carol Concert at Romsey Abbey on December 3 at 7.30pm. Adult tickets cost £15 (senior citizens £12) and children £6. Tickets are available on 02380 890002.