A family-run funeral director has appealed for the safe return of its minibus after it was stolen off a driveway in Joydens Wood.

P L Mulligan, which has been running for a decade, uses a specially-made Ford minibus as part of its service, to give people free transport to funerals.

"We used to take it to nursing homes for people if they want to attend funerals or elderly residents," owner Danny Mulligan said.

He added: "We also lend it out to families who can't afford a limousine for their loved one's funeral. They can then travel to the service free of charge."

P L Mulligan only bought the minibus just over a year ago to make sure people who could not afford transport would still be able to see their family members and friends put to rest.

"We wanted to give back to the community," Mr Mulligan said.

He told News Shopper he first noticed the minibus was gone when he woke up on Monday morning, after parking it on his driveway.

"I got up at 6am, had a shower, came downstairs and it was gone," he said.

Mr Mulligan has posted photos of the minibus on Facebook in the hope someone might recognise it. He has also reported it to police.

In the meantime, the funeral service will still offer its service of transporting those who cannot attend funerals with a rented van.

News Shopper has contacted police for more information.