A purple double-decker bus donated to Maidenhead Synagogue by a local charitable trust has been converted into a mobile hostel for the homeless.

The seating has been removed from the vehicle and 12 beds installed on the top deck and a kitchen, desk and bathroom downstairs.

Rabbi Jonathan Romain, minister of the Reform congregation, said the desk was the most important feature as it would offer the “first step” for users towards obtaining employment and more permanent accommodation.

The community has been fundraising to pay for a warden who will be on board to supervise and give advice.

Fully roadworthy, the bus will be driven to the town centre to pick up passengers for the night. Volunteers from the shul will be drivers and congregants have also donated items such as sleeping bags.

Rabbi Romain, who has worked with other local groups on the project, pointed out that “many of the homeless are people who had jobs and homes until recently.

“But their lives have spiralled out of control and into the streets.

“The bus is part of the synagogue’s involvement in the wider community and represents our commitment to social action.”