The Ramsbury Flyer mini-bus has been hailed such a success by Action with Communities in Rural England it now wants community transport schemes to be set up in more areas.
The service, which provides elderly residents with a vital link to nearby towns and local doctors’ surgery, relies on volunteers to drive its 14-seater bus.
The bus, nicknamed the Flyer, is owned by Ramsbury and Axford Parish Council and is run by its committee.
Chairman Chris Morgan said: “Our volunteers are a good mixed group of men and women, most of whom are retired or run their own businesses, which allows them time to volunteer.”
The scheme runs on a rota basis and most drivers contribute one morning a month.
The mini-bus transports patients to and from the Ramsbury and Wanborough Surgery twice a week, which helps medical staff reduce home visits. Passenger Kay Harrod, 86, said: “We would be lost without the Flyer.
“I use it three or four times a week to visit the doctor and to go shopping in Hungerford, Marlborough and Newbury.
“The drivers are excellent and so helpful. In icy weather they make sure we have a door-to-door service.”
Funding for the scheme is provided by Wiltshire Council, the Ramsbury and Wanborough Surgery, donations from passengers and from private hire.
Martin Hawkins, of ACRE, said: “With cuts in public transport, community transport schemes play a big part in keeping the country moving. The Ramsbury Flyer is a fantastic example of how communities can play their part in supporting each other.”
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