New charity bus is ready to take to the road

The bus has been gifted by the Department for Transport,from the government’s Community Transport Minibus Fund, and has been custom built by Minibus Options Ltd to the Group’s specifications.

Colin Osborne, the Mayor of Sandy,attended a welcome meeting and thanked the many volunteers involved in the bus operation for their community work.

Sandy TOTT is a volunteer organisation which operates the bus for the benefit of the local community. The group is supported by Sandy Conservative Club, who provide free parking for the bus, Sandy Carnival Committee and Sandy Methodist Church, who have granted funds for operating expenses, and BRCC who have also provided funds for driver training and publicity expenses. BS Motors of Sandy carry out regular safety checks.

The bus is available for hire by any community or not-for- profit organisations within Sandy and surrounding areas. It can be self driven or volunteer drivers may be provided. The bus can accommodate up to 16 passengers and has a tail-lift, for disabled access. It can transport up to three wheelchairs, with the loss of some passenger capacity.

The bus is used frequently by such groups as the Ivel Stroke Club, TIBBS Dementia Foundation, Quince Court, and similar organisations, to take group members on luncheons,theatre shows, and similar events.

Sandy TOTT is always looking for willing people to assist with operating the bus,especially volunteer drivers. For more information call Ray on 07710 295267.