Holbeach Community Bus is taking bookings after being restored
A beloved bus is now officially ready for bookings after being restored, writes Libby Mayne.
The Community Bus in Holbeach has been saved after a rescue plan came to fruition - after a struggle to find trustees and the Covid pandemic.
Martin Howard had been involved in the bus for many years and recruited South Holland district councillor Tracey Carter to help return the vehicle to service.
Martin and Coun Carter then approached Sam Favell and Lisa Clarke from Chosen to act as two new trustees for the committee. They had the necessary experience to organise the paperwork and accounts to allow the service to run. They accepted the challenge.
Sam said: “I am not sure myself and Lisa were quite prepared for the task in hand, but we were so committed to doing it. It has taken a lot of time and commitment, even blood sweat and tears at times, but we are delighted with what we have achieved and feel we are now in a good place with it”.
Martin is now restored to his previous role as chair of the community bus.
Sam and Lisa share the secretary and treasurer roles.
Other committee members include previous bus supporters, Carol Vassey and Michael Sells who manage booking for the bus.
Coun Carter said: “We are now in a strong position, ready to really promote the bus and increase the bookings. The decision was made to start gradually over the past few months while the work was being done in the background but its now ready to get fully booked up.”
If anyone is interested in booking the 16 seater minibus, contact 07497 12182 or 01406 490361. The rate is £30 a day with the hirer covering fuel costs.