The tiny Mr Whippy van has been unveiled today and will visit intu Merry Hill next week.

It's part of the shopping centre giant's pledge to make their customers smile and follows new research revealing that eating ice cream makes people happier.

The ‘Nice Cream Van’ measures just 47 inches long and 39 inches high and has a maximum speed of 12 mph. It will go on a nationwide tour to surprise and delight shoppers around the country and stops off at intu Merry Hill on Wednesday 9th August

The research also revealed that 90 per cent of people in the West Midlands feel happier in the summer than they do in the winter, with sunshine, longer days and more outdoor activity the top three reasons given. Rob Pickersgill, marketing manager at  intu Merry Hill, said:

"We're delighted to have created what we believe is the world’s smallest ice cream van - but the real win will be seeing the smiles it puts on people’s faces at intu shopping centres around the country for those lucky enough to get free ice cream.

"We work really hard to create experiences that will surprise and delight our customers and make each individual shopping trip a happier, more memorable one.

"At intu we have something for everyone and whether you’re someone who loves to shop or a bit more of a last minute panic shopper, we aim to ensure you leave happier than when you arrived."

The tour of the tiny van follows research revealing that eating ice cream is one of the top ten things that make those in the West Midlands happiest in the summer. Others on the list include taking a trip to the beach, having a BBQ, going on holiday, watching the sunset and wearing your summer wardrobe.