THE British Red Cross in Taunton took possession of a brand new patient transport vehicle yesterday (Tuesday).

It was to the charity, based in Livingstone Way, by Stuart Hadler, the Provincial Grand Master of the Somerset Freemasons.

The £50,000 Renault Master 3.5-tonne van, which can carry up to seven patients, was paid for by The Freemasons' Grand Charity and will help the Red Cross support more local people at times of personal crisis.

It will enable the charity to transport more people to and from hospital throughout the county during times of peak or high demand.

The vehicle could also be used to support the work of Red Cross emergency response volunteers during large-scale incidents such as the extensive flooding witnessed in Somerset in 2013/14.

Mr Hadler said: “The Freemasons’ of Somerset are generous supporters of the Freemasons’ Grand Charity and delighted to see the work of the Red Cross in Somerset recognised in this prominent and practical way."

Malcolm Allsopp, ambulance support operational manager at the Red Cross, said: “We are extremely grateful to the Freemasons for this very generous donation.

"The new vehicle will be an excellent addition to our existing fleet and offer improved comfort and access for patients as well as better operational use for staff and volunteers.

“The vehicle will be used by hundreds of people each year who need transport to and from hospital and may not have friends or family close by to help.

"The provision of door-to-door transport, with a trusted Red Cross staff member or volunteer providing the service, can make a big difference to someone at a time of stress and personal crisis.”