Sweet-toothed shoppers will have to stoop for their next scoop as the world’s smallest ice-cream van is visiting a shopping centre to hand out free frozen snacks.

The “Nice Cream Van”, which measures just 47 inches long and 39 inches high and has a maximum speed of 12mph, will be driving around intu in Watford, on Wednesday August 16.

Leigh Brooks, marketing manager at intu Watford, believes it will help “put a smile” on faces of families as they hunt for bargains.

She 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.”