Big pink double decker bus is just the ticket to lift lockdown blues for Padiham families

Moved by the stories of how low many parents have felt during lockdown with so little to do with their youngsters, nursery owner Kerry Driver decided the time was right for a grand gesture to cheer the community up.

And what a grand gesture she made!

For Kerry and her partner, Leanne Hodgeon, splashed out on a pink double decker bus that they plan to convert into a mobile library.

Bubbly Kerry, who owns Victoria Nursery, said: "I just thought, why not buy a bus and a big pink one at that?"

Purchased from Warrington based Used Coach Sales Ltd, owner Michael Daly, drove the bus over to Padiham as Kerry does not have a licence to drive it yet. But she is planning to change that as soon as lockdown allows her to start driving lessons.

Kerry added: "I am really grateful to Michael for his help. When he knew what the project was all about he was keen to help.

"And yes, we all saw the funny side of my surname being Driver."

Previously used as the My Little Pony tour bus, the double decker is kitted out with cupboards and seating inside that can easily be adapted into a library on wheels

Kerry added: "The people of Padiham have really welcomed me into the community since I came here four years ago so I wanted to give something back.

"The response so far to the bus has been fantastic with so many positive comments."

And Kerry's daughter Leah (12) and son Tyler, who is six, were thrilled when they heard about the rather unusual purchase.

Leah said: "When my mum told me they had bought a pink double decker bus I didn't believe it until I actually saw it for myself.

"It is just amazing."

The library will be free and a big launch party is being planned when lockdown is lifted. And Kerry and Leanne are planning to launch a competition for children to come up with a name for the bus.

Staff at the nursery cannot wait to get started with the project and the people of Padiham are already on board as they have donated a staggering 800 books. The team also plan to create a sensory play area in the double decker.

Deputy manager Imogen Spencer said: "We can't wait to get the bus up and running.

"It will be a fantastic way to bring everyone back together in the community, put some smiles on people's faces and try and forget about the last year."