Bus project will help tackle rural isolation

The new Broughton Astley Community Bus was officially launched by Christine Lord, the Broughton Astley Parish Council manager, during a special ceremony held on Friday, October 10,

The bus is now fully operational.

At the launch, Christine praised the efforts made by the Community Bus Committee to raise the funding of about £36,000 required over a two-year period, which took many hours of work in a difficult economic climate.

Christine said: “I was delighted to be asked to officially launch the new Broughton Astley Community Bus.

“Whilst I was very happy to play a part in the fund raising by completing and submitting a successful grant funding application to Harborough District Council, in my view the efforts made by the voluntary team on a daily basis eclipse any of those around them.

“Thanks must go to all those involved – those who took bookings, those who raised funds, sorted out the insurance and the accounts, and also those who will drive, clean and maintain the bus on a regular basis in order to make a very valuable community service happen.

“The Community Bus Committee can now be rest assured that their efforts have been successful and that they will be greatly appreciated by the residents of Broughton Astley and its surrounding villages for many years to come.”

She added that the bus will provide a lifeline to the outside world for many isolated rural residents, enabling them to undertake essential activities such as shopping and also attend social activities like lunch clubs.

“It will reduce rural isolation felt by many people living on their own in a busy community,” she said

The new community bus is now running fortnightly trips to the Fosse Park shopping centre in Enderby, Leicester, and to Lutterworth town centre.

It is available to use by all residents in the village.

The bus is also available to hire for local groups.

For further details phone 01455 282966.