Bob the Bus receives their prestigious award.
Local dignitaries and a fleet of Bob the Bus volunteer drivers gathered to witness the moment a fancy gong in the form an engraved glass block was handed over to TARCT Chairman, Steve Grove by the Kings Lord-Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursden.
A warm round of applause broke out when Lyn Price, who managed the project for decades returned for the occasion.
Totnes MP Caroline Voaden said “It’s brilliant to see Bob the Bus recognised like this, So many people are involved, so many people from the community and it’s great to see them recognised for all their hard work”
Steve Grove spoke first to he assembled gathering of around 60 on Friday morning at Follaton House made up of well-wishing passengers and volunteers – pointing out that Bob the Bus is more than a bus service but socially essential for many people in the Totnes area, he also thanked Graham Walker for his fundraising efforts that have raised thousands for the service.
The Lord Lieutenant introduced himself as King Charles II representative in Devon. He explained the process of applications for the Kings Award for Volunteers Services pointing out that it is a rare honour and recognised that Bob the Bus provides an outstanding service to the community and well being of the area prior to handing over the heavy glass award and signed certificate which states “…to Bob the Bus friendly and accessible transport for all, essential for many reducing isolation in and around Totnes,”
He went on to say that over the 11 years of his position, “the strength of volunteering that goes on in this county has been a challenge especially since Covid and congratulations to you for getting through that.”
Steve Grove also pointed out in his statement how important it is to recruit new drivers to continue the service. Anyone who might be interested in driving are invited to contact the group by emailing bobthebushire@yahoo.com or visiting the volunteer page on the website here. He emphasised that the few hours given by each driver has a direct and tangible benefit within this community.
All volunteers were also provided with their own pin-badge representing the Kings award.