The Bingo Association has proudly donated a Variety Sunshine Coach to Woodlands Secondary School in Luton, marking a significant milestone: the 37th coach funded as part of their ongoing support for Variety, the Children’s Charity. This latest donation contributes to a remarkable £2 million raised by the Association over the past six years.

The coach was officially presented by Miles Baron, Chief Executive of The Bingo Association, during a special ceremony attended by the Mayor of Luton, Councillor Amy Nicholls, and representatives from the local Mecca Bingo club.

Woodlands School, located in Luton, provides education for students with severe and profound multiple learning difficulties. Since 1973, the school has focused on empowering young people through functional learning, life skills development, and the promotion of independence.

Variety’s Sunshine Coaches play a vital role in enabling schools like Woodlands to offer enriching experiences outside the classroom. These specially adapted vehicles allow disabled and disadvantaged children to participate in educational and recreational activities that might otherwise be out of reach. The new coach will be an invaluable tool for Woodlands, helping students engage with the community, develop essential life skills, and enjoy broader learning opportunities.

Miles Baron reflected on the impact of the Association’s support:

“We’re honoured to support Woodlands School and are grateful for the presence of the Mayor of Luton and representatives for the local Mecca Bingo in Luton today. This milestone—£2 million raised and 37 Sunshine Coaches donated—is a testament to the incredible generosity of bingo players and staff across the country. Seeing the direct impact on children’s lives makes every effort worthwhile.”

Caroline Lowry, Deputy Head of Woodlands School, expressed heartfelt thanks:

“We are so grateful to The Bingo Association for sponsoring this coach. Our students are at the heart of everything we do, and this bus will have a profound impact on their lives. It will enable them to engage with their community, practice life skills, and take part in enriching experiences outside of school. We sincerely thank The Bingo Association and Variety for their incredible support.”

Laurence Guinness, CEO of Variety, added:

“We are thrilled to present a Sunshine Coach to Woodlands School and deeply appreciate The Bingo Association’s continued generosity. Every coach helps us move closer to our mission of improving the lives of disabled and disadvantaged children. This 37th donation from the £2 million raised is a powerful example of what can be achieved through community support.”