New electric community minibus launched

An MP said the new bus was an "excellent community initiative"

A new electric and fully accessible community minibus has been launched.

Downland Volunteer Group's (DVG) Handebus service will pick up passengers in West Berkshire from their homes and drive them to and from shops, appointments or other venues.

It was partly funded by £50,000 from West Berkshire Council's (WBC) Community Transport Capital Grant Fund.

Newbury MP Laura Farris said it was "an excellent community initiative" that would provide "essential support to residents in the Downland villages".

The bus has easy access side steps, air conditioning and heating, and a hydraulic tail lift to enable it to carry up to two wheelchair users and their carers.

DVG said it offered a "bespoke" service and drivers would help load shopping on and off the vehicle and carry it to residents' front doors.

The group added that it would also reduce loneliness as regular users can get to know each other.

As well as the money from WBC, it was also funded by donations from The Greenham Trust, The Englefield Trust, Miss Lawrence Trust in Kintbury, and other private donations.

Ms Farris said the bus would help foster "community cohesion whilst promoting greener transport options".

"I am very proud of all the local volunteers who have made this possible," the Conservative MP added.

Denise Gaines, executive member for highways, housing and sustainable travel at WBC, said it was "heartening to see that a local community group is taking such bold steps to improve accessibility for those with mobility difficulties".

DVG said it was looking for volunteer drivers, and has asked anyone interested who holds a clean driving licence with a D1 entitlement category to get in touch.