A Red Cross centre has been given a boost with the first multi-purpose vehicle in the county - thanks to a legacy.

Volunteers had been without a permanent vehicle for a year after their previous one was found to be unroadworthy.

The new vehicle can be used as an ambulance, first aid post or for community transport.

It was bought with a legacy from the late Doris Walker, of Frinton, who left thousands of pounds to Frinton and Walton branch of the British Red Cross Society.

The vehicle, which cost £35,000 and is the first of its kind to be used by the Red Cross in Essex, was presented to volunteers yesterday at the branch's headquarters in Greenway, Frinton.

As well as working as an ambulance, it will be able to transport vulnerable or frail people.

The legacy has also meant other improvements have been able to be carried out at the centre, including concreting the forecourt and new fencing, with new garage doors to be fitted soon.

Mrs Walker used to be visited by volunteers from the Red Cross who transported her in their former ambulance.

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