It's been dubbed the "Boris Bluebird" - a new Dial-a-Ride minibus being rolled out across the capital.

The custom-built fleet of 61 Bluebird buses was launched by Boris Johnson to replace the existing, ageing, Dial-a-Ride fleet at a cost of £3.9 million.

The Dial-a-Ride service is aimed at older or disabled Londoners who cannot easily use public transport.

New ramps, instead of an undignified tail-lift, will make it easier for wheelchair passengers to get on and off.

There is also airconditioning, tinted windows, and more comfortable seating.

"Dial-a-Ride is a lifeline for tens of thousands of Londoners for whom getting around the city is a challenge," said Mr Johnson. Free fares were introduced on Dial-a-Ride buses in January this year.

• 

  Lenny Henry: 'Maybe one day we can have a black Doctor Who'

  As he wins the outstanding newcomer prize at the Evening Standard theatre awards for his role as Othello, Lenny Henry has come a long way from black and white minstrels

  ---

• 

  Spread of the Jedhead

  Jedward, voted off the X-Factor this weekend, are the most obvious proponents of the sticky-uppy look - but the style crosses boundaries of age, gender, sexuality and taste, says Nick Curtis

  ---