BISHOP'S Castle and District Community has taken delivery of a brand new 16 seater Citroen Relay 2.2 diesel minibus, which comes complete with a powered lift, thus enabling the easy transport of wheelchairs.

The acquisition has been made after the scheme's manager, Adrian Varcoe, made a successful bid for funding from the Department of Transport. The total value of the new vehicle provided by the department is £43,000.

Local celebrity "Fuzz" Townshend, journalist and television presenter, presented the keys of the vehicle to two newly qualified minibus drivers: Trevor Chalkley and John Rimmer Mr Townshend said "I am pleased and honoured to be able to make this presentation. I am only too well aware of how important such services are to local communities – especially in more remote areas such as the Bishop's Castle vicinity. It is doubly important for those in our community who find it difficult to get about easily."

Adrian Varcoe, who spent many weeks preparing the bid says, "It was hard work but we have had a successful outcome. As Fuzz has already said, this service is essential to our community. It would not exist if it wasn't for our band of volunteer drivers who give up countless hours to help – free of charge – coupled with the great efforts we have all made to secure funding for this fabulous new vehicle".

Bishops Castle Dial-a-Ride minibus service and community car scheme operates from Enterprise House in Station Road. If anyone wishes to book the service or is interested in becoming a volunteer driver they should contact Adrian Varcoe on 01588 638350 or visit dial.a.ride@hotmail.co.uk