Transport buggies that take patients and visitors on 1,000 journeys inside King’s Mill Hospital each week have been refurbished, thanks to a local business.

Taylors Transport Group, of Huthwaite, has resprayed the two buggies that it donated nearly 10 years ago. The logistics and warehousing company also provided a Buggy Stop sign for the pick-up point in the main reception area of the Sutton hospital.

In 2014, the company’s managing director, Alan Taylor, and wife, Kay, raised £22,155 for the buggies by hosting a garden party as a thank-you for the excellent care he received as a patient.

Since then, the buggies have provided a major boost to patients and visitors, travelling many miles up and down the main corridors of the hospital five days a week.

The buggies, which are operated by some of the trust’s specially-trained 400 volunteers, have been freshly painted in red, with up-to-date branding.

Alan said: “We noticed that both buggies were in need of a little TLC, so we offered to put them both through our paint shop to make them look new again and to extend their life.

“The buggies provide an essential service to King’s Mill and have done for many years. We are always proud to support the local community wherever we can.”

Claire Ward, chair of Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which operates King’s Mill, added: “We are very grateful to Taylors Transport Group for its continued support.

“Donations such as this by businesses, community groups, and individuals enable Sherwood Forest Hospitals Charity to make a positive difference to patients, their families, and visitors across all areas of our three hospitals.”

The community involvement manager at the trust, Jo Thornley, added “The volunteer-run buggy service helps those who are less mobile get to their appointments on time and in comfort. It is very well used and appreciated by so many.

“Thank you to Taylors Transport Group for this kind gesture, and to our fantastic volunteers for driving the buggies as part of the wide range of services they provide to our patients.”

To get involved in supporting Sherwood Forest Hospitals through donations and fundraising activity, go to www.sfh-tr.nhs.uk/get…/our-charity/contact-us