Delivery firm DPD has donated Variety's first electric poweredSunshine Coach to help a primary school in London run more school trips.

The donation has been made as part of the 30-year partnership between the delivery firm and the children’s charity, which supports inclusion and accessibility by providing transport and trips for children of all abilities.

This is the 83rd sunshine coach donated to the charity by DPD but the first electric vehicle. It “presents a significant step towards sustainability in the charity’s fleet of vehicles”, said the charity.

“The fully electric vehicle will not only reduce carbon emissions but will also provide reliable and comfortable transport for children to access the vital opportunities and experiences they need to support their learning and growth,” added Variety.

“We continue to support Variety year after year because of the fantastic work they do and because it remains a hugely popular cause with our whole team,” said DPD UK chief executive Elaine Kerr.

“We know these coaches make a world of difference to schools, but this one a bit special for us too. 30 years and the first electric coach, makes us very proud of this partnership and it gives us enormous pleasure to handover the keys to Rotherhithe Primary School.”

Varity chief executive Laurence Guiness added: “The Variety Sunshine Coaches enable vulnerable children to participate in trips, engage in sports and activities, and connect with their community.

“We are deeply grateful to DPD. Their newest coach will make a meaningful difference for the children at Rotherhithe Primary School, both now and in the future."

Rotherhithe primary school headteacher Galiema Amien-Cloete, said the coach “will play a crucial role in supporting the curriculum, providing our students enrichment opportunities vital to their growth and learning”.

She said: “Field trips, sports events and after school activities will compliment classroom learning and extend learning and provision beyond the classroom.

“For our learners it is an example of innovation which supports environmental responsibility, cares for our planet, and provides opportunities beyond the local environment.”

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