TRANSPORT group Trowbridge Guild of Community Service showed off its new fit-for-purpose minibus to some of its most regular users on Tuesday.

The volunteer organisation has been running a minibus service since the late 1980s and provides essential transport for older people, those with disabilities and those without access to public transport.

It takes residents on shopping trips and outings and serves disability clubs such as the Trowbridge Visually Impaired Club, whose members turned out for the arrival of the new minibus at St John’s Church Hall in Upper Studley.

The minibus was bought through Dean Flockton, of Rygor Motors, who worked with Courtside Conversions in Tavistock, which adapted the bus to ensure that it met the specifications of the guild.

Chairman John Greenaway said: “We decided to unveil the minibus to the Trowbridge Visually Impaired Club as it has used the service from the beginning, with club leader Tony King instrumental in the very first minibus purchase.

“This new minibus purchase was made possible with the help of a number of legacies and money passed to the guild when a number of disability clubs closed.

“We are very grateful to Dean Flockton, of Rygor Motors, who worked closely with the guild and liaised with Courtside Conversions to adapt the bus to ensure the safety and comfort of our users.

“The aim of the guild has always been to give door to door service, taking people to their luncheon clubs, disability clubs, on shopping trips and outings. These outings are in many cases the lifeline to the users, who often rarely leave their homes.”

The minibus was bought for £56,500 and includes space for 14 passengers and a wheelchair, while folding chairs can provide extra space for another wheelchair or shopping. It also includes railings and a wheelchair ramp.

Mr Greenaway added that the guild, which is also set to get a second minibus as part of the Department for Transport’s Community Transport Minibus Fund, is looking for new volunteers to fill roles within the committee.

He said: “For this service to continue the guild does need new blood, with new ideas and enthusiasm for our executive committee. We especially need a deputy chair, a deputy treasurer and an overseer of the minibus service, all to work closely with present post holders.”

Further details of the post can be obtained by contacting Mr Greenaway on 01225 753489 or emailing johnandglayne@blueyonder.co.uk