A school for children and young people with autism is looking for volunteers to drive its minibus on days out.

Radlett Lodge School, in Harper Lane, Radlett, is run by the National Autistic Society and supports 55 pupils with autism, aged four to 19 years.

Staff try to take the pupils out on regular day trips, so they can experience the outside world and improve their social skills, but these trips are often dependent on the availability of volunteer drivers.

Although a couple of volunteers already help out, the school hopes new drivers will volunteer and get to drive its new Variety coach - which was donated by the family of the late Bernice Cowen earlier this year.

Paul Stewart, from Radlett, has been driving the minibus for four hours a week more than two years.

He said: "Volunteering for Radlett Lodge has opened my eyes to the challenges faced by children and young people with autism, but also allowed me to experience the fun of working with such unique individuals.

“The students often make me laugh and make me feel that I am making a positive contribution; they sometimes make me thank you, birthday or Christmas cards, which I find very touching.

"I would recommend volunteering to anyone, no matter how much time you can provide. It's always appreciated and is hugely rewarding as one can witness directly the positive impact it has on the students.”

Full autism training will be provided by the school so volunteers do not need to know much about the condition before applying.

Principal Jo Galloway said: “We’re so fortunate to have a minibus to take them out, but rely on a small but dedicated group of volunteers to drive the students. We’re currently looking for more volunteers so, if anyone is interested, whether it’s for a couple of hours a week or more, please get in touch.

“A small amount of time can make a huge difference.”

If you are interested in volunteering, contact Marina Quinn at Marina.Quinn@nas.org.uk