Scott Mann says he is “absolutely delighted” at the news that Concern Wadebridge has won government funding for a new minibus to support people in the town and surrounding communities who are over 50 years old.
The funding has been awarded under the Department for Transport’s £25 million Community Minibus Fund. This year saw the second round of the Fund, with £2 million being dished out to 40 disability, patient, children and school groups.
Concern Wadebridge is a small, independent charity supporting local people who are over 50, which is based in the town’s John Betjeman Centre. The group provides a Community Hub where people can enjoy various activities or socialise come and meet friends old and new.
Last year the group obtained a second-hand minibus through the help of Newquay Lions which Scott went to see.
Scott Mann said:
“I’m absolutely delighted that Concern Wadebridge has been successful in getting this funding for a new minibus.
“My office and I have been supporting the group with their application and I’m so pleased that they have been successful.
“Concern Wadebridge does great work for local people in the town and surrounding communities, and a new minibus will help enormously in providing better transport so people can more easily get to the John Betjeman Centre and take part in the group’s various activities.”
Andy Lyle, Manager of Concern Wadebridge, said:
“We were thrilled to learn that we were successful in our bid, and we appreciate all the assistance from Cornwall Council and the letters of support from Tina Yardley at Wadebridge School, Ann Lewis at Age UK Cornwall and our local MP Scott Mann.
“Over the last twelve months we have been developing the Access Wadebridge initiative, and our current minibus which we acquired through the Newquay Lions has proven successful with out-and-about trips.
“Our application for funding was based on local need and backed up by the community, and we appreciate all the support given to us.
“We now look forward to the arrival of the new vehicle which will help support local people and other community groups."
Transport Minister Andrew Jones said:
“Community transport is vital for people in rural areas, helping them reach shops, hospital appointments, loved ones, friends, jobs and education.
“We have so far provided 300 minibuses in the first round of the £25 million Community Minibus Fund and they are already improving lives of people up and down the country.
“These extra minibuses will give a further boost and make sure the public can access the places and services they want.”
Further information
Concern Wadebridge website:
http://www.concernwadebridge.org.uk/
DfT press release:
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-minibuses-to-improve-rural-mobility