TROWBRIDGE-based Hitachi Capital has joined forces with British Gas to bring summer joy to many children in need with a gift of a Vauxhall Astravan.

The Kids Company, a charity which supports children with severe emotional and social difficulties was proud to take delivery of the van which came complete with the charity's logo signage.

The van will help the Kids Company's housing intervention programme, Colour a Child's Life, where volunteers are taken to clean, redecorate and create a healthier, happier home for the children to live in.

It will also help the charity to redecorate run down schools and paint murals to brighten up playground areas.

Tatty Sloane, corporate volunteer co-ordinator for the Kids Company, said: "Kids Company was thrilled to receive this generous and unexpected donation from Hitachi Capital. The van will be in constant use and greatly appreciated by so many people."

Colin Marriott, general fleet manager at British Gas added: "We chose Kids Company from several possible charities as part of our voluntary work scheme, as it aims to improve the quality of kids lives and I am sure that having a new van will help to make a tangible difference."

Jon Lawes, divisional managing director for Hitachi Capital's Commercial Vehicle Division said: "We wanted to help British Gas and Kids Company with something that was meaningful to everyone and the van, which we adapted here at our site in Trowbridge, seemed the most appropriate answer.

"Children should not have to go through any more trauma than is necessary in their lives and the van will transport the essential materials to create joy and happiness."