It was a great day for Alresford on Saturday (29th April 2017) when Steve Brine cut the ribbon on its brand new minibus.
The MP also oversaw special awards given to three long service voluntary drivers who were retiring.
The ceremony was attended by a gathering of 40 people at The Swan Hotel, ranging from Minibus organisers, voluntary drivers, local councillors, Steve Brine MP accompanied by his children and Trustees.
NATT Chair, Robin Atkins, informed everyone that it had taken two and a half years to decide on the merits of 5 possible minibuses, and to build to our specification. The Mercedes Sprinter has 15 seats including the driver (the best compromise available) which had the advantage of automatic steering, special luggage/shopping compartment and graduated steps, which the Trust hope will help the elderly and disabled passengers get on and off the Minibus.
Steve Brine who was the first member of NATT said; "The work done by both Pam Stevens and the Trust has proven itself over so many years and the Minibus service is, quite literally, a lifeline for many. The fact the last bus did over 100,000 miles shows what an incredible resource it is for the town and I have no doubt it will go from strength to strength with this new and improved model. It was a privilege to cut the ribbon and send it on its way."
Pam Stevens then presented Certificates and M&S vouchers to Barry Mitchell who had driven the bus for over 10 years, Wayne Sansom (8 years) and Dennis Jones (7 years). She also thanked Bernard Simmons, who had been the experienced driver, who had helped the Trust in selecting the new Minibus and gave him a bottle of Jack Daniels Whisky as a thank you.
The Trustees will retain the old Minibus as a back up and this will enable the Trust to perform a greater number of journeys. The initial journey will be on 2nd May with Age Concern who use the Minibus twice a week, and also a shopping visit to Alton Sainsburys. Other journeys include regular trips to Supermarkets and Leisure trips.
Any person or organisation interested in using the Minibus should contact PAM STEVENS on (01962) 734861 or E.Mail heatherhollow@btinternet.com for details.
Pictured; Steve and the team at the launch of the new minibus behind the Swan Hotel.
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