The Little Red Bus is run by the Launceston Community Transport Partnership (LCTP) and aims to fill the gaps when it comes to local public transport, arranging routes from rural hamlets, parishes and villages for shopping trips and days out for those who may have mobility issues, or need more frequent access to public transport than is already available to them.

For people in rural areas without cars, and with continuing concerns around lack of public transport in Cornwall, the Little Red Bus is a lifeline for many. With suitable access for wheelchairs, and space to seat 16 passengers each journey, the bus means users of the service can keep their independence, get out of the house and involved with their community.

The LCTP purchased a new bus at the beginning of the year, meaning they now have two buses to service the community. Volunteer Ann said: "The past year has been very busy. So much so, thoughts were always in the back of our minds about the age of the current bus and the availability of a replacement suitable for our finances and use. One of the trustees saw a bus for sale and it seemed to be ideal for our use. Although white, it has been customised with our logo and seems to be a success with the customers. Once again, income has benefitted by a donation from Launceston Town Council and because of their support and that of Homeleigh, they are part of the art work. At the moment, although it was thought of as a replacement, we are able to keep two buses on the road, as the support for our trips and of our drivers keeps both buses viable. The older red bus has a lift and is invaluable for care home trips out."

Last week was National Volunteers' Week, a chance to showcase the work of volunteers up and down the country and for the public to show their appreciation. The work of volunteers is mostly done quietly behind the scenes, without the expectation for thanks and praise. But the truth is, a lot of communities would be lost without their volunteers. They are the people who offer their time, for free, to help those in need, continue a service that otherwise may have been lost, or provide activities and arts, cultural and educational opportunities to their towns, villages and communities.

Like many other projects across the country, the Little Red Bus would not be able to run without the dedication of LCTP's trustees and volunteers.

The four trustees, Richard, James, Ann and Paul, continue their efforts to involve as many people as possible in their work. The trustees also give up their time as drivers, helping two other drivers, though the team are looking for more people who might be able to offer up some time to become a driver for the bus.

Another invaluable volunteer is Elaine, who answers the phone and contacts all individuals using the service for trips. Two of the volunteer drivers organise the Boyton shopping run between them, to ensure it can continue.

The service offers regular shopping trips to Bodmin on Mondays, and to Launceston fortnightly on Fridays, as well as other trips around the area. Notices for these trips are placed on as many noticeboards as possible, as the service depends on customers to keep it going. Trips on the current list are being well supported, and due to the current climate, costs are kept as low as possible.

The Little Red Bus keeps an office at the Gateway Centre in Launceston, and the team always welcomes any donations from the public, which help to continue the service for those who need it.

Ann added: "It makes us very proud of all that has been achieved since 2020, purely through the volunteering goodwill of everyone involved. LRB would always like more volunteers (even for simple things like cleaning the bus) to ease the work load, particularly of the drivers, but are aware that all charities continue to have the same problem."

If you would like to find out more about volunteering for the Little Red Bus, call 01566 777 960. For more information about the Little Red Bus and its services, go to https://littleredbus.uk/

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